Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) market predicted to triple in size by 2030 on a global scale
The Russian drone sector experienced significant growth in 2024, with a total revenue of 77 billion rubles – a 15% increase from the previous year's 45 billion rubles. This surge is reflected in the expansion of the sector, as the number of small and medium-sized enterprises producing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and their components increased by 15% to 607 companies, employing nearly 10,000 people.
This growth is particularly evident in the oil and gas industry, where drones are becoming critical for operational stability and sustainability. Companies such as Saudi Aramco, BP, Chevron, Shell, and TotalEnergies are among those expanding their drone fleets for pipeline, flare stack, tank, and offshore platform checks.
The role of drones in the development of the oil and gas industry is expected to continue growing, with experts predicting that by 2025, the commercial drone market will surpass the military drone market. However, challenges remain, such as airspace safety and data management concerns, as well as existing limitations in payload capacity, battery lifespan, and regulatory differences.
Russia's Minister of Industry and Trade, Anton Siluanov, has made a statement about the potential for Russian drone exports, with the potential annual market for Russian drone exports estimated to be between $5 billion and $12 billion. The largest Russian companies active in the development and application of drones for the oil and gas industry include Rostec, which has been extensively deploying Russian drones like Zala Aero UAVs during military operations, and other entities under the Russian defense and technology sectors supporting drone technology primarily used in surveillance, precision strikes, and reconnaissance.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of drone technology in the oil and gas industry are clear. Drones offer a safer, more efficient, and cost-effective alternative to traditional methods for inspections, emissions control, and maritime logistics. As these advantages become more widely recognised, it is likely that the Russian drone sector will continue to grow and play an increasingly important role in the energy sector.
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