Global Small Drones Market
Market Size in USD Billion
CAGR :
% 
 Forecast Period |
2024 –2031 |
 Market Size (Base Year) |
USD 16.06 Billion |
 Market Size (Forecast Year) |
USD 47.18 Billion |
 CAGR |
% |
| Major Markets Players |
Global Small Drones Market Segmentation, By Type (Fixed Wing, Rotary Wing, and Hybrid Wing), Maximum Take-off Weight (Less than 5 kg, 5 to 25 kg, and Above 25 to 150 kg), Power Source (Lithium-Ion, Solar Cells, Hybrid Cells, and Fuel Cells), Mode of Operation (Remotely Piloted, Optionally Piloted, and Autonomous), Application (Military, Civil and Commercial, Homeland Security, and Consumer), Payload (Cameras, CBRN Sensors, Electronic Intelligence, and UAV Radar) – Industry Trends and Forecast to 2031.
Small Drones Market Analysis
The small drones market is growing rapidly, driven by advancements such as improved battery life and AI-powered navigation systems. New technologies enable longer flight times and enhanced autonomous capabilities, expanding applications from agriculture to infrastructure inspection. The market is set to grow due to increasing demand for precise data collection and cost-effective solutions in various industries.
Small Drones Market Size
The global small drones market size was valued at USD 16.06 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 47.18 billion by 2031, with a CAGR of 14.42% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2031. In addition to the insights on market scenarios such as market value, growth rate, segmentation, geographical coverage, and major players, the market reports curated by the Data Bridge Market Research also include in-depth expert analysis, geographically represented company-wise production and capacity, network layouts of distributors and partners, detailed and updated price trend analysis and deficit analysis of supply chain and demand.
Small Drones Market Trends
“Increased Adoption in Agriculture”
One key trend driving growth in the small drones market is their increasing use in agriculture. Small drones are revolutionizing farming practices by providing precise aerial data for crop monitoring, pest detection, and soil analysis. For instance, DJI's AGRAS series is widely used for spraying pesticides and fertilizers, enhancing crop yields and reducing labor costs. These drones offer high-resolution imaging and real-time data analytics, allowing farmers to make informed decisions. The adoption of small drones for precision agriculture is accelerating market growth as they improve efficiency, optimize resource usage, and support sustainable farming practices.
Report Scope and Small Drones Market Segmentation
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Attributes |
Small Drones Key Market Insights |
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Segments Covered |
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Countries Covered |
U.S., Canada and Mexico in North America, Germany, France, U.K., Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, Russia, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Rest of Europe in Europe, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Rest of Asia-Pacific (APAC) in the Asia-Pacific (APAC), Saudi Arabia, U.A.E, South Africa, Egypt, Israel, Rest of Middle East and Africa (MEA) as a part of Middle East and Africa (MEA), Brazil, Argentina and Rest of South America as part of South America |
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Key Market Players |
Skycatch, Inc (U.S.), Airbus (Netherlands), L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (Canada), Sci Aero Group (Australia), C-Astral d.o.o (Slovenia), Trek Aerospace, Inc (U.S.), Yuneec (China), Boeing (U.S.), Thales Group (France), Parrot Drones SAS (France), Aeryon Labs (Canada), DJI (China), 3DR, Inc. (U.S.), Kespry Inc. (U.S.), Textron Inc. (U.S.), Northrop Grumman (U.S.), BAE Systems (U.K.), and Elbit Systems Ltd. (Israel) |
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Market Opportunities |
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Value Added Data Infosets |
In addition to the insights on market scenarios such as market value, growth rate, segmentation, geographical coverage, and major players, the market reports curated by the Data Bridge Market Research also include in-depth expert analysis, geographically represented company-wise production and capacity, network layouts of distributors and partners, detailed and updated price trend analysis and deficit analysis of supply chain and demand. |
Small Drones Market Definition
Small drones, also known as micro or mini drones, are compact unmanned aerial vehicles designed for a variety of uses. They are commonly employed in aerial photography, surveillance, and recreational activities. Their small size allows for easy maneuverability and access to confined spaces, making them ideal for tasks such as monitoring wildlife, inspecting infrastructure, and capturing detailed aerial footage.
Small Drones Market Dynamics
Drivers
- Rising Interest in Aerial Photography and Videography
The growing fascination with aerial photography and videography is significantly driving the small drones market. For instance, drone models such as the DJI Mini 3 Pro are popular among both enthusiasts and professionals for their high-quality imaging capabilities. These drones offer advanced features such as 4K video recording and stabilized cameras, making them ideal for capturing stunning aerial footage, thus boosting small drones market demand.
- Development of Advanced Navigation Systems
Enhanced GPS and navigation systems are significantly improving the accuracy and reliability of small drones. For instance, DJI’s new models feature advanced GPS modules that provide precise location tracking and collision avoidance, making them ideal for tasks such as infrastructure inspections and precision agriculture. These advancements drive market growth by expanding the range of applications and increasing the overall appeal of small drones.
Opportunities
- Growth in E-commerce and Delivery Services
The rise of drone delivery services is significantly expanding opportunities in the small drones market. Companies such as Amazon and UPS are pioneering drone deliveries for small packages, enhancing delivery speed and efficiency. This trend is creating a growing demand for advanced small drones capable of navigating urban environments and handling various payloads. As e-commerce continues to expand, the market for delivery drones is set to thrive, opening new avenues for growth and innovation.
- Growing Interest in Hobbyist and Recreational Use
The growing interest in hobbyist and recreational use creates a significant market opportunity for small drones. As drones become more affordable and user-friendly, their popularity among enthusiasts and casual users increases. For instance, DJI’s Mini-series has made aerial photography accessible to amateurs, driving higher sales and expanding market reach. This trend highlights the potential for growth as more individuals engage in drone flying as a hobby.
Restraints/Challenges
- High Initial Costs
The advanced technology and components used in small drones can be prohibitively expensive, particularly for small businesses and individual users. This substantial initial investment can be a significant barrier, discouraging potential customers from entering the market and limiting overall market penetration. As a result, the high cost of acquisition can stifle market growth and adoption.
- Battery Life Limitations
Small drones typically suffer from limited battery life, constraining their operational time and range. This short battery life impacts their effectiveness for extended missions and various applications. The ongoing challenge of improving battery technology to meet these needs remains significant. As a result, the market faces constraints due to the reduced utility and operational efficiency of small drones in longer or more demanding tasks.
This market report provides details of new recent developments, trade regulations, import-export analysis, production analysis, value chain optimization, market share, impact of domestic and localized market players, analyses opportunities in terms of emerging revenue pockets, changes in market regulations, strategic market growth analysis, market size, category market growths, application niches and dominance, product approvals, product launches, geographic expansions, technological innovations in the market. To gain more info on the market contact Data Bridge Market Research for an Analyst Brief, our team will help you take an informed market decision to achieve market growth.
Small Drones Market Scope
The market is segmented on the basis of type, maximum take-off weight, mode of operation, power source, application, and payload. The growth amongst these segments will help you analyze meagre growth segments in the industries and provide the users with a valuable market overview and market insights to help them make strategic decisions for identifying core market applications.
Type
- Fixed Wing
- CTOL
- VTOL
- Rotary Wing
- Single
- Multi
- Bicopters
- Tricopters
- Quadcopters
- Hexacopters
- Octocopters
- Hybrid Wing
Maximum Take-off Weight
- Less than 5 kg
- 5 to 25 kg
- Above 25 to 150 kg
Mode of Operation
- Remotely Piloted
- Optionally Piloted
- Autonomous
Power Source
- Lithium-Ion
- Solar Cells
- Hybrid Cells
- Fuel Cells
Application
- Military
- Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR)
- Battle Damage Management
- UCAV
- Delivery
- Civil and Commercial
- Precision Agriculture
- Remote Sensing
- Inspection Monitoring
- Photography and Film Production
- Surveying and Mapping
- Product Delivery
- Wildlife Research and Preservation
- Scientific Research
- Media Coverage
- Homeland Security
- Border Management
- Traffic Monitoring
- Fire Fighting and Disaster Management
- Search and Rescue
- Search and Rescue
- Maritime Security
- Consumer
- Prosumer
- Hobbyist or DIY
Payload
- Cameras
- High-Resolution Cameras
- Multispectral Cameras
- Hyperspectral Cameras
- Thermal Cameras
- EO or IR Cameras
- CBRN Sensors
- Electronic Intelligence
- UAV Radar
- Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)
- Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar
Global Small Drones Market Regional Analysis
The market is analyzed and market size insights and trends are provided by type, maximum take-off weight, power source, application, mode of operation, and payload as referenced above.
The countries covered in the market report are U.S., Canada, Mexico in North America, Germany, Sweden, Poland, Denmark, Italy, U.K., France, Spain, Netherland, Belgium, Switzerland, Turkey, Russia, Rest of Europe in Europe, Japan, China, India, South Korea, New Zealand, Vietnam, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Rest of Asia-Pacific (APAC) in Asia-Pacific (APAC), Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America as a part of South America, U.A.E, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, South Africa, Rest of Middle East and Africa (MEA) as a part of Middle East and Africa (MEA).
North America is expected to dominate the small drones market due to increased use in border and maritime surveillance. The region's strong presence of key players and advancements in technology further drive growth. Enhanced security measures and innovations by leading companies will significantly contribute to North America's market leadership during the forecast period.
Europe is projected to observe significant growth in the small drones market, driven by rising demand for aerial photography, crop monitoring, and precision farming. Additionally, advancements in drone technology are expected to further accelerate market expansion in the region over the coming years.
The country section of the report also provides individual market impacting factors and changes in market regulation that impact the current and future trends of the market. Data points such as down-stream and upstream value chain analysis, technical trends and porter's five forces analysis, case studies are some of the pointers used to forecast the market scenario for individual countries. Also, the presence and availability of global brands and their challenges faced due to large or scarce competition from local and domestic brands, impact of domestic tariffs and trade routes are considered while providing forecast analysis of the country data.
Global Small Drones Market Share
The market competitive landscape provides details by competitor. Details included are company overview, company financials, revenue generated, market potential, investment in research and development, new market initiatives, global presence, production sites and facilities, production capacities, company strengths and weaknesses, product launch, product width and breadth, application dominance. The above data points provided are only related to the companies' focus related to market.
Global Small Drones Market Leaders Operating in the Market Are:
- Skycatch, Inc (U.S.)
- Airbus (Netherlands)
- L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (Canada)
- Sci Aero Group (Australia)
- C-Astral d.o.o (Slovenia)
- Trek Aerospace, Inc (U.S.)
- Yuneec (China)
- Boeing (U.S.)
- Thales Group (France)
- Parrot Drones SAS (France)
- Aeryon Labs (Canada)
- DJI (China)
- 3DR, Inc. (U.S.)
- Kespry Inc. (U.S.)
- Textron Inc. (U.S.)
- Northrop Grumman (U.S.)
- BAE Systems (U.K.)
- Elbit Systems Ltd. (Israel)
Latest Developments in Small Drones Market
- In March 2023, The FAA authorized the Pearland Police Department in Texas to use drones as first responders Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) without visual observers. This initiative, known as the Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, aims to improve emergency response efficiency and coverage
- In February 2023, a scientific team flew the Autel EVO Lite+ drone into the active main crater of Costa Rica's Irazú volcano. Equipped with a 6K camera, the drone captured critical data on lake water levels, mineralization areas, and volcanic gas emissions, aiding in comprehensive volcanic studies
- In January 2023, Autel launched the EVO Max 4T, a compact drone tailored for first responders. It features a 640x512 thermal camera, a 50MP wide camera, and a 48MP zoom camera with 10x optical and 160x digital zoom. With an IP43 rating, it operates in light rain and snow
- In November 2022, The French Defense procurement agency, DGA, received 400 ANAFI USA micro-drones. These drones, designed for various military needs, are distributed with 12% to the air and space force, 28% to the navy, and 60% to the army, supporting both conventional and Special Forces operations
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Research Methodology
Data collection and base year analysis are done using data collection modules with large sample sizes. The stage includes obtaining market information or related data through various sources and strategies. It includes examining and planning all the data acquired from the past in advance. It likewise envelops the examination of information inconsistencies seen across different information sources. The market data is analysed and estimated using market statistical and coherent models. Also, market share analysis and key trend analysis are the major success factors in the market report. To know more, please request an analyst call or drop down your inquiry.
The key research methodology used by DBMR research team is data triangulation which involves data mining, analysis of the impact of data variables on the market and primary (industry expert) validation. Data models include Vendor Positioning Grid, Market Time Line Analysis, Market Overview and Guide, Company Positioning Grid, Patent Analysis, Pricing Analysis, Company Market Share Analysis, Standards of Measurement, Global versus Regional and Vendor Share Analysis. To know more about the research methodology, drop in an inquiry to speak to our industry experts.
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