Small UAV Market Analysis

Type (Micro, Mini)

Micro segment is projected to capture small drone market share of around 68.3% by the end of 2037, owing to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and wide applications. It is highly preferred due to its small size. Its defense application includes close-range ISR missions where the data would be available in real-time tactical operations. For instance, in August 2021, Aeronautics created the small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), Orbiter for use in homeland security and military applications. The Orbiter UAV is capable of close-quarters intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, low-intensity engagements, urban warfare, and over-the-hill reconnaissance missions.

Application (Civil Commercial, Military Defense, Others)

The civil commercial segment is projected to account for a significant share of the small drone market. The potential sectors for utilization of UAV applications are surveying mapping and inspection to save considerable time and expense over traditional methods. For example, in September 2023, Teledyne Flir unveiled a technology that allowed multiple drones to be launched and recovered autonomously from military vehicles. Its 'Black Recon' system includes a small, agile micro-drone that can fly for up to 45 minutes and weighs only 350 grams. Additionally, with increased demand from the media and entertainment industries for aerial photography and videography, the scope of segment expansion is marked by an increase in the use of such capabilities.  

Our in-depth analysis of the global small drone market includes the following segments: