Agricultural drones in integrated farming system: A new horizon

Abstract

Agricultural drones are redefining modern farming by integrating advanced aerial technologies with precision agriculture practices. As a pivotal component of integrated farming systems, drones also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) offer multifaceted applications across various stages of agricultural production. From land surveying and crop monitoring to targeted agrochemical spraying and real-time pest and disease detection, drones enhance efficiency, accuracy, and sustainability in farming operations. Recent advancements in sensor technology, artificial intelligence, and data analytics have enabled drones to detect crop stress, monitor livestock behaviour, and support decision-making processes with high-resolution spatial data. These technologies help optimize resource use, minimize environmental impacts, and reduce labour dependency. In livestock systems, drones enable remote tracking, welfare assessment, and pasture management. Moreover, drone-based spraying systems significantly reduce chemical drift and enhance operator safety. Despite numerous benefits, challenges such as high initial costs, regulatory hurdles, limited battery life, and the need for technical expertise hinder widespread adoption, particularly among smallholder farmers. However, with continued innovation and supportive policies, agricultural drones are poised to become essential tools for sustainable and climate-smart agriculture. This review highlights the current applications, benefits, challenges, and future prospects of drone technology within integrated farming systems, presenting it as a transformative tool for the next generation of agriculture.