Berg Insight released a new report on connected commercial drones used for industrial and governmental purposes. The global market for connected commercial drones is forecast to grow from US$18.6 billion in 2024 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15% to reach US$37.3 billion in 2029.
The market value includes drone systems and associated software used for applications in agriculture, military and defence, public safety and first response, surveying and inspection, and other areas such as delivery and logistics. The forecast excludes drones used for recreational purposes, drones offered as services, and weaponised military-grade drones. The military and defence sector is the most prominent application area for connected drones, accounting for about 60% of the total market value in 2024.
Commercial drones have high payload capacities, long flight times, and robust navigation systems. They also incorporate advanced ground control stations and communications systems to support their operation, enabling them to be used in several industries. The top players active in the commercial drone space range from specialised technology suppliers of varying sizes to leading drone manufacturers. Many of the key players today serve several application areas, while other solution providers may focus on one single use case.
The market is led by China-based DJI, which has an estimated 70% market share of the global drone market as of 2024. Other leading drone manufacturers include Autel Robotics and JOUAV, based in China; France-based Delair and Parrot; and Skydio, AeroVironment, and AgEagle, based in the US. The commercial drone market is set for a consolidation journey in the upcoming years, as many application areas are fragmented. Solution providers are also largely impacted by the developing regulations, which can affect the adoption of commercial drones worldwide.
Besides all drones featuring RF communications as default for both flight control and data transmission, it is common that commercial drones also feature cellular or satellite connectivity when long-distance missions are to be conducted. “Reliable communications systems are especially important for BVLOS (beyond visual line of sight) operations,” says Veronika Barta, IoT analyst at Berg Insight. Losing connectivity during flight can lead to safety and operational issues, such as the drone abandoning the mission.
“As regulations for BVLOS flights progress, wireless technologies need to ensure that the drone can always communicate with ground control stations even at long distances,” continues Barta. Cellular 4G/5G provides reliable support for two-way data transfer between the control station and supporting platforms such as unmanned traffic management systems. Another option is to combine cellular and satellite technologies, ensuring that drones can maintain real-time connectivity with their control stations over long distances and in challenging environments. The flexibility to switch between cellular and satellite networks can optimise performance across diverse environments, making drone missions more resilient.
Download report brochure: Connected Commercial Drones
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