Drones Market Research Report Information by Offering (Drone, Drone Payloads, Drone Management Software, Drone Services (Piloting and Operations, Maintenance, Repair and Over-haul, Simulation and Training)), by Drone Type (Fixed-Wing, Multi-Rotor, Single-Rotor Helicopter, Fixed-Wing Hybrid VTOL), by Size (Small, Medium, Large), by Mode of Operation (Remotely Piloted, Optionally Piloted, Fully Autonomous), by MTOW (25 Kg, 25-170 Kg, >170 Kg), by Range (Visual Line of Sight, Extended Visual Line of Sight, Beyond Visual Line of Sight), by E

Global Drones Market Overview

The Drones Market was valued at USD 73.19 Billion in 2024. The Drones Market industry is projected to grow from USD 76.36 Billion in 2025 to USD 130.61 Billion by 2035, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% during the forecast period (2025-2035).

 The growing adoption of drones in commercial applications and rising procurement for miliary applications and rising demand for surveillance and investigation capabilities are driving the growth of the Drones Market.

As per the Analyst at MRFR, the drone market is expanding, as many businesses use drones more often in their operations. Businesses across different industries now use drones like UAVs because new drone technology makes these machines better at their jobs and more affordable. Drones appear frequently in agricultural operations. Farmers use drones to check their crops and soil quality while spraying pesticides which help them work less and see better harvest results. DJI and AgEagle Aerial Systems lead the development of drones built to support agricultural accuracy.

FIGURE 1: DRONES MARKET VALUE (2019-2035) USD BILLION

 Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

Drones Market Opportunity

GOVERNMENT INVESTMENTS IN DRONES

Government spending on drones is offering significant prospects for market growth by encouraging innovation, broadening applications, and boosting adoption across industries. Recognizing the transformational potential of drone technology, governments around the world are committing significant funds to research, development, and deployment of drones for a variety of applications. The defense sector is a major beneficiary of government investments. Militaries are making significant investments in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat missions. For example, the US Department of Defense continues to invest billions of dollars annually in drone programs such as the MQ-9 Reaper and the rising usage of drone swarms, thereby improving their capabilities and increasing industrial demand. Civil and public sectors also benefit from such investments. 

Governments are deploying drones for disaster response, border security, and infrastructure inspections. For instance, in India, government-backed initiatives like the "Digital Sky" platform promote the use of drones for agriculture, disaster management, and public safety, while creating a supportive regulatory framework for businesses. Research and innovation funding further stimulate the market. Agencies like NASA and the European Commission are investing in drone-related technologies, such as advanced sensors, AI-powered navigation, and urban air mobility systems, paving the way for next-generation drone solutions. 

Government subsidies and grants for startups are another driver, encouraging smaller companies to enter the mar et and innovate for example, China’s extensive support for its drone industry has enabled companies like DJI to become global leaders. These investments not only propel technological advancements but also foster collaborations between public and private sectors, unlocking significant growth opportunities for the drone market.

Drones Market Segment Insights:

Drones by Offering Insights

Based on Offering, this segment includes Drone, Drone Payloads, Drone Management Software, Drone Services (Piloting and Operations, Maintenance, Repair and Over-haul, Simulation and Training). The Drone segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Drone Services segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are aircraft that can be controlled remotely or autonomously and have grown in popularity for a variety of uses. 

Drones were first utilized by the military but are now widely used in industries like agriculture, logistics, surveillance, and filmmaking. Drones exist in a variety of sizes, from little quadcopters to massive fixed-wing aircraft, each tailored to a specific mission. They are outfitted with sensors, cameras, and GPS systems to collect data, monitor activity, and even deliver products. Drones are becoming more efficient, adaptable, and accessible as technology advances, increasing their application in both the consumer and business sectors. As rules and safety standards evolve, drones continue to transform industries by offering faster, safer, and more cost-effective solutions to a variety of problems.

FIGURE 2: DRONES MARKET SHARE BY OFFEERING 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Drones by Drone Type Insights

Based on Drone Type, this segment includes Fixed-Wing, Multi-Rotor, Single-Rotor Helicopter, Fixed-Wing Hybrid VTOL. The Multi-Rotor segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Fixed-Wing segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Multi-rotor drones, also known as rotary-wing, are the most widely used type of drones for recreational and professional use. 

Their small size and excellent control make multi-rotor drones the best choice for aerial photography. Offering great versatility, they allow the installation of all types of cameras to perform different tasks. They are drones that can hover easily and take off vertically, adding more flexibility as well.

Drones by Size Insights

Based on the Size, this segment includes Small, Medium, Large. The Small segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Large segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. The size of these drones can be as small as an insect and easily fit in the palm of your hand, with dimensions between 1 and 50 cm. Because of their small size and wing design, nano drones can fly in very confined spaces and are not easily detected and are mainly used by spies to gather information on people and objects. 

Small drones are slightly larger than micro drones, between 50 cm and 2 meters. The wings of these drones are usually fixed and can be easily lifted by the arm and thrown into the air. They can be used for indoor equipment inspections (prop guards, cages), but they are more often used outdoors for recreation and photography, such as traffic management.

Drones by Mode of Operation Insights

Based on the Mode of Operation, this segment includes Remotely Piloted, Optionally Piloted, Fully Autonomous. The Remotely Piloted segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Fully Autonomous segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Remotely piloted aircraft (RPA), also known as drones, are operated by human pilots who control the aircraft from a distance. A trained pilot must operate these systems while issuing flight instructions and keeping the aircraft safe. 

Remote pilots work from ground control stations that include joysticks and touchscreen displays to control how the drone flies. Companies and military forces use remotely piloted systems to perform surveillance work and take pictures while human operators remain in control. The pilot keeps control of the drone from takeoff to landing by monitoring its performance and changing course when needed. Although RPAs are not fully autonomous, they offer a high level of control and flexibility, allowing the operator to intervene when needed.

Drones by MTOW Insights

Based on the MTOW, this segment includes 25 Kg, 25-170 Kg, >170 Kg. The 25 Kg segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the 25-170 Kg segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. UAVs weighing 25 kilograms belong to the medium-sized category and can deliver significant loads during flight at reasonable speeds. 

These drones serve different business functions such as land surveys, farm monitoring and building inspections because they can transport professional monitoring devices.

Drones by Range Insights

Based on Range, this segment includes Visual Line of Sight, Extended Visual Line of Sight, Beyond Visual Line of Sight. The Extended Visual Line of Sight segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Beyond Visual Line of Sight segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Extended Visual Line of Sight (EVLOS) allows drone operators to extend their line of sight beyond the limits of what can be seen with the naked eye. While still requiring visual observation of the drone, EVLOS allows for the use of visual observers (VOs) positioned at different locations to help the pilot maintain situational awareness. 

The observers send information to the pilot to help keep the UAV secure and inside permitted airspace. Pilots use EVLOS to operate drones when they cannot see the craft directly but receive visual updates from other observers. This operating style is widely used in commercial activities such as aerial surveying and construction monitoring because drones need to fly over large areas with human supervision. With EVLOS operators can fly drones further than VLOS while following safety rules.

Drones by End-User Insights

Based on the End-User, this segment includes Personal, Commercial (Construction & Infrastructure, Oil & Gas, Mining, Media & Entertainment, Telecom, Energy & Utilities, Agriculture, Others), Government (Law Enforcement & Security, Public Safety and Infrastructure, Environmental Monitoring, Others), Military (Border Patrol and Surveillance, Search and Rescue, Military Reconnaissance, Others). The Commercial segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Military segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. 

Drones have become invaluable tools in various commercial industries due to their efficiency, precision, and ability to access challenging environments. In construction and infrastructure, drones are used for site surveys, progress monitoring, and safety inspections, while creating detailed 3D maps and models. In the oil and gas sector, they enhance safety and cost efficiency by inspecting pipelines, detecting leaks, and monitoring remote sites with thermal imaging and aerial sensors. The mining industry leverages drones for volumetric analysis, mapping, and monitoring hazardous areas, optimizing resource management and safety.

Drones Regional Insights

Based on the Region, the Global Drones is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East & Africa and South America. The North America dominated the global market in 2024, while the Asia-Pacific is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Major demand factors driving the North America market are the growing adoption of drones in commercial applications and rising procurement for miliary applications and rising demand for surveillance and investigation capabilities. North America consists of US, Canada and Mexico. 

North America stands as a dominant force in the global drone’s market, with a robust ecosystem of manufacturers, service providers, and end-users. The region is characterized by advanced regulatory systems that evolve steadily to support the expanding commercial drone industry specifically through the United States and Canada. North America stands as a leader in drone technology advancement while drones find important uses in agriculture, construction, delivery services and public safety. Significant investments from public and private organizations drive North America's drone market while enabling research into autonomous flight systems and AI capabilities and BVLOS operations.

FIGURE 3: DRONES MARKET VALUE BY REGION 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

Further, the countries considered in the scope of the Application Tracking System Market are the US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Turkey, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, South Africa, Brazil, Argentina, Chile and others.

Global Drones Key Market Players & Competitive Insights

Many global, regional, and local vendors characterize the Drones Market. The market is highly competitive, with all the players competing to gain market share. Intense competition, rapid advances in technology, frequent changes in government policies, and environmental regulations are key factors that confront market growth. The vendors compete based on cost, product quality, reliability, and government regulations. Vendors must provide cost-efficient, high-quality products to survive and succeed in an intensely competitive market.

The major competitors in the market are Autel Robotics, Skydio, Yuneec, Freefly Systems, Vectorbirds Airborne Systems, Beyond Vision, Delair, Teledyne Flir LLC, Parrot SA, AeroVironment, Inc., Lockheed Martin Corporation, Elbit Systems, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Thales Group, DJI are among others. The Drones Market is a consolidated market due to increasing competition, acquisitions, mergers and other strategic market developments and decisions to improve operational effectiveness.

Key Companies in the Drones Market include

• Autel Robotics


• Skydio


• Yuneec


• Freefly Systems


• Vectorbirds Airborne Systems


• Beyond Vision


• Delair


• Teledyne Flir LLC


• Parrot SA


• AeroVironment, Inc.


• Lockheed Martin Corporation


• Elbit Systems


• Northrop Grumman Corporation


• Thales Group


• DJI

Drones Market Industry Developments

January 2024: DJI unveiled DJI FlyCart 30 (FC30) to the global market. This delivery drone overcomes traditional transport challenges with its large payload capacity, long operation range, high reliability, and intelligent features. Now delivery, such as mountain transportation, offshore transportation, or emergency rescue transportation, can be performed with more efficiency and flexibility.

July 2024: Thales has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Garuda Aerospace to promote growth and innovation in the drone sector in India. Under the agreement, Thales will provide expertise in the field of Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) solutions, UAV detection, and system integration, whilst Garuda will bring its skills in the manufacture and use of UAVs, as well as its expertise in the Indian market.

January 2023: DELAIR acquired NOTILO PLUS and extends its offer for Industry and Defense to the maritime environment with a new business Unit DELAIR MARINE. The NOTILO PLUS acquisition, part of DELAIR ’s external growth strategy, consists in strengthening its offer in its two major markets, Industry and Defense, by extending its range of solutions. It is based on the technological and commercial synergies between the two companies and will make it possible to perpetuate and develop the activity of NOTILO PLUS which will retain its current locations (head office inMarseille).

September 2022: Northrop Rumman Corporation unveiled Australia’s first MQ-4C Triton autonomous aircraft during a ceremony at its high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) aircraft production site in California.

Drones Market Segmentation

Drones by Offering Outlook

• Drone


• Drone Payloads


• Drone Management Software


• Drone Services
  
  
  
  • Piloting and Operations
  
  
  • Maintenance, Repair and Over-haul
  
  
  • Simulation and Training
  
  
  
  

Drones by Drone Type Outlook

• Fixed-Wing


• Multi-Rotor


• Single-Rotor Helicopter


• Fixed-Wing Hybrid VTOL

Drones by Size Outlook

• Small


• Medium


• Large

Drones by Mode of Operation Outlook

• Remotely Piloted


• Optionally Piloted


• Fully Autonomous

Drones by MTOW Outlook

• 25 Kg


• 25-170 Kg


• >170 Kg

Drones by Range Outlook

• Visual Line of Sight


• Extended Visual Line of Sight


• Beyond Visual Line of Sight

Drones by End-User Outlook

• Personal


• Commercial
  
  
  
  • Construction & Infrastructure
  
  
  • Oil & Gas
  
  
  • Mining
  
  
  • Media & Entertainment
  
  
  • Telecom
  
  
  • Energy & Utilities
  
  
  • Agriculture
  
  
  • Others
  
  
  
  


• Government
  
  
  
  • Law Enforcement & Security
  
  
  • Public Safety and Infrastructure
  
  
  • Environmental Monitoring
  
  
  • Others
  
  
  
  


• Military
  
  
  
  • Border Patrol and Surveillance
  
  
  • Search and Rescue
  
  
  • Military Reconnaissance
  
  
  • Others
  
  
  
  

Drones Regional Outlook

• North America
  
  
  
  • US
  
  
  • Canada
  
  
  • Mexico
  
  
  
  


• Europe
  
  
  
  • Germany
  
  
  • UK
  
  
  • France
  
  
  • Italy
  
  
  • Spain
  
  
  • Austria
  
  
  • Netherlands
  
  
  • Belgium
  
  
  • Sweden
  
  
  • Denmark
  
  
  • Norway
  
  
  • Poland
  
  
  • Portugal
  
  
  • Turkey
  
  
  • Rest of Europe
  
  
  
  


• Asia-Pacific
  
  
  
  • China
  
  
  • Japan
  
  
  • India
  
  
  • South Korea
  
  
  • Australia
  
  
  • Singapore
  
  
  • Malaysia
  
  
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
  
  
  
  


• Middle East & Africa
  
  
  
  • Saudi Arabia
  
  
  • UAE
  
  
  • Qatar
  
  
  • South Africa
  
  
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa
  
  
  
  


• South & Central America
  
  
  
  • Brazil
  
  
  • Argentina
  
  
  • Chile
  
  
  • Rest of South & Central America
  
  
  
  

Report Attribute/Metric	Details
Market Size 2024	USD 73.13 Billion
Market Size 2025	USD 76.36 Billion
Market Size 2035	USD 130.61 Billion
Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)	5.3 % (2025-2035)
Base Year	2024
Forecast Period	2025-2035
Historical Data	2019-2023
Forecast Units	Value (USD Billion)
Report Coverage	Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
Segments Covered	By Offering, By Drone Type, By Size, By Mode of Operation, By MTOW, By Range, By End-User
Geographies Covered	North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and South America
Countries Covered	The US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Turkey, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, South Africa, Brazil, Argentina, Chile
Key Companies Profiled	Autel Robotics, Skydio, Yuneec, Freefly Systems, Vectorbirds Airborne Systems, Beyond Vision, Delair, Teledyne Flir LLC, Parrot SA, AeroVironment, Inc., Lockheed Martin Corporation, Elbit Systems, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Thales Group, DJI
Key Market Opportunities	·         Government investments in drones ·         Surging usage of commercial drones in mining and construction industry ·         Technological advancements
Key Market Dynamics	·         The growing adoption of drones in commercial applications ·         Rising procurement for miliary applications ·         Rising demand for surveillance and investigation capabilities