The latest research in the journal Science shows that agricultural drone technology is rapidly spreading worldwide, significantly changing traditional grain planting methods. This study tracks the distribution areas, functional uses, and diffusion drivers of agricultural drones, while assessing the multiple impacts of this technology on agricultural producers and the environment.

In recent years, agricultural drones have evolved from expensive and complex equipment into ready-to-fly tools, with payload capacities increased to 100kg. The study points out: "Drones can fly immediately after purchase and can carry loads of up to 220 pounds (100kg)—equivalent to the weight of two bags of fertilizer." Price differences mean that Chinese farmers can purchase them for less than $10,000, while American users need to pay $20,000–$30,000, with most farmers preferring to choose professional service providers for flight services.

The dissemination path of agricultural drone technology presents new characteristics, extending from East Asia to Southeast Asia and Latin America, and finally reaching North America and Europe. China maintains an active position in the field of agricultural drones, with reports indicating more than 250,000 units in operation. 30% of Thailand's arable land has adopted drone operations, and the number of registered agricultural drones in the United States has increased from about 1,000 at the beginning of 2024 to 5,500 by mid-2025. This multifunctional equipment can perform tasks such as pesticide spraying, fertilization and seeding, and livestock monitoring, and is regarded by farmers as a "flying tractor."

Drone technology effectively reduces risks in agricultural production. The study shows: "Switching from using backpack sprayers to spray chemicals to using drones to spray chemicals greatly reduces the risk of direct exposure to toxins for farmers and farm workers." However, aerial operations may cause chemical drift, requiring standardized operating procedures. This technology also triggers changes in the labor structure, creating new positions for drone pilots while replacing some traditional manual spraying work.

Agricultural drones improve resource utilization efficiency through precise delivery of fertilizers and seeds, providing technical support for achieving sustainable intensification. Although existing evidence of effectiveness mostly comes from case studies, this technology has covered millions of farmers worldwide within five years, initially demonstrating potential to enhance operational safety and rural livelihoods.