Due to different application fields and purposes, drones differ significantly from conventional manned aircraft in terms of materials and structure. Manned aircraft must prioritize human safety, adhering to strict standards for structural integrity and material strength. In contrast, drones have more flexibility in design and materials, with composite materials being the preferred choice due to their superior rigidity, strength, fatigue resistance, and thermal expansion properties.
Drone Concept
Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are aircraft operated without a human pilot onboard, controlled either remotely or autonomously via onboard computers. The first drone appeared in 1917. Drones have evolved rapidly, driven by modern warfare and their inherent advantages of high flexibility and maneuverability. They vary widely in size, shape, weight, range, speed, and altitude, and are broadly classified into military and civilian drones. Military drones include attack drones, reconnaissance drones, and electronic warfare drones, among others, while civilian drones serve purposes such as agriculture, surveillance, and mapping.
Development of Drones in China
Since the first successful drone test flight in 1958 by the Xi’an Aisheng Technology Group (Northwestern Polytechnical University), China has seen over 60 years of drone development. Notable achievements include the CK-1 target drone, high-altitude reconnaissance drones, the ASN series, and the advanced ASN206 multi-purpose drone. Recent advancements include the “Xianglong,” “Wing Loong,” “Caihong,” “Lijian,” and WJ600 series, with the WJ600 being highly advanced, predominantly made from composite materials and possessing excellent stealth capabilities.
The “Caihong” series is particularly diverse, including various models such as the CH-3, CH-4, CH-5, and CH-7, each designed for different operational needs from medium-altitude long-endurance to vertical takeoff and landing capabilities. The successful development of drones like the WZ-6, T333, AV500W, and CR500 signifies China’s entry into the international forefront of military drone technology.
The Chinese civilian market, especially industrial-grade drones, is growing rapidly. Applications include agricultural protection, power inspection, and environmental monitoring. China’s vast geography and push for smart cities further drive drone adoption. By 2024, the industrial drone market is expected to reach USD 45 billion.
Global Drone Development
United States
As a leader in drone technology, the U.S. has developed a range of drones since 1939, including the “Firebee” and “Lightning Bug” target drones, and more modern systems like the MQ-1C Gray Eagle, MQ-8 Fire Scout, MQ-9 Reaper, and RQ-4 Global Hawk. The U.S. has also focused on carrier-based drones, enhancing its naval capabilities with models like the X-47B and MQ-25 Stingray. The U.S. Air Force continues to expand its drone systems, integrating high-altitude reconnaissance and mid-altitude strike capabilities.
Russia
Russia began drone development in the 1930s but experienced a significant slowdown post-Soviet Union dissolution. The Syrian civil war in 2011 marked a renewed focus on drone technology, leading to models like the “Orlan-10,” “Forpost,” and “Orion,” which perform reconnaissance and target identification. The “Orlan-10” is Russia’s most widely used drone, with extensive capabilities including real-time video transmission and electronic warfare equipment.
Israel
Israel is a major player in drone technology, starting in the 1970s. Its notable drones include the “Hermes 900,” “Skylark,” and “Heron,” which have proven effective in multiple conflicts and are popular globally. Israeli companies like Elbit Systems and IAI (Israel Aerospace Industries) continue to innovate, creating advanced models used in diverse military operations.
Current Market Status
The global drone market has been expanding rapidly. By 2022, China’s drone market size reached approximately USD 150 billion, with civilian drones accounting for around USD 138 billion and military drones USD 12 billion. Registered drones numbered 958,000, with 700,000 registered users. The industry includes research, production, sales, training, and maintenance. The drone supply chain involves key components like engines and sensors, whole drone manufacturing, and various application services such as aerial photography and agricultural monitoring.
Military Market
The demand for military drones has surged due to the need for modern warfare tools and national security. Global military drone market projections indicate continuous growth, reaching $16.4 billion by 2032.
Application of Composite Materials in Drones
Drones use composite materials extensively due to their superior properties. Applications include:
- Structural Components: Main body, wings, and tail.
- Motor Housing: Protecting core components like motors and controllers.
- Heat Dissipation: Making cooling elements to manage heat during flights.
- Fuel Systems: Using composite tanks for hydrogen storage.
- Sensor Housing: Protecting sensors from environmental damage.
Here at Airmobi, we make the airframes mostly by carbon fiber. These carbon fiber UAVs are light in weight but very strong. Our Skyeye series UAV platforms have been widely used in many fields.
Manufacturing Techniques
- Autoclave Molding: Ensures high-quality, uniform resin content, and excellent mechanical properties but is costly.
- Vacuum Bag Molding: Cost-effective and easy to implement, suitable for smaller UAVs.
- Compression Molding: High production efficiency and economic, ideal for foam core structures.
- Low-Temperature Molding: Economical and energy-efficient, suitable for a variety of UAVs.
Future Prospects
- Miniaturization: Smaller, lightweight drones with enhanced functionalities and ease of control.
- Stealth Technology: Drones with reduced detectability, adapting to environmental changes like a chameleon.
- Intelligent Systems: Autonomous targeting, reconnaissance, and evasion, reducing the risk of being shot down. For example, Airmobi offers an AI camera A30TR. A standout feature of the A30TR is its AI Identification and Tracking system, which can automatically recognize and track cars, humans, and boats, reducing operator workload and enhancing UAV autonomy.
- System Integration: Enhanced coordination among multiple drones, enabling large-scale applications.
- High-Speed, Long-Endurance: Faster drones with improved fuel systems, potentially using solar or advanced fuel cells.
Governments worldwide support the drone industry through policies and initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and application. These efforts include promoting public aviation safety, advancing general aviation, enhancing emergency response capabilities, and supporting agricultural drone applications. The industry is expected to continue growing, driven by technological advancements and expanding applications.
The development of drone technology globally reflects significant advancements and future potential. With strong foundations in both military and civilian applications, coupled with government support, the drone industry is poised to continue its leadership in the global market. The future will see drones becoming even more integrated into various sectors, providing enhanced capabilities and contributing to economic growth and societal benefits.