A recent field demonstration at the “Sät” peasant farm in Kazakhstan’s Kargaly region provided a tangible look at the rapid maturation of drone technology in modern agriculture. While the visit featured the harvesting of new potatoes, the central protagonist was a large-capacity agricultural drone, showcasing its role in precise crop protection. This shift from observation to active application marks a critical point for farmers, agronomists, and engineers considering the integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) into their operations.
The showcased drone, capable of carrying up to 50 kg, was being used for the application of liquid agents. As explained by Salamat Nauryzbayev, director of “MKR Line,” the key advantages are stark:
- Operational Efficiency: The drone can cover up to 220 hectares per shift, a rate comparable to traditional wheeled sprayers.
- Significant Input Savings: The technology enables a 20-30% reduction in herbicide and pesticide use through precise, targeted application and reduced water volume (as low as 10 liters per hectare versus traditional methods).
- Zero Soil Compaction: Unlike heavy machinery, drones eliminate the damage caused by soil compaction, which protects soil structure and prevents yield loss in the tramlines.
- Rapid Refueling: Pit-stop refills for chemicals take less than 1.5 minutes, maximizing active spraying time.
This case study aligns with global data. According to a 2023 report by PrecisionAg, farmers using drone-based spraying for specialty crops like potatoes report an average input cost reduction of 15-25% and a 5-10% increase in yield due to more timely and effective application, especially in wet conditions when ground equipment cannot enter the field. For a high-value crop like potatoes, where the farmgate price can be volatile (reported at 135-140 KZT/kg or ~$0.30/kg in this instance), these efficiencies directly impact profitability.
The technology is particularly suited for mid-season applications in potatoes. Drones can effectively apply fungicides to control late blight in dense canopy conditions, administer insecticides against Colorado potato beetle, and even perform foliar feeding. The ability to act quickly during short weather windows is a critical risk mitigation tool.
The demonstration at “Sät” farm moves beyond theoretical benefits and provides a clear, economic argument for the adoption of agricultural drones in potato production. The technology is no longer a futuristic concept but a practical tool that addresses core challenges: reducing input costs, preventing soil compaction, enabling precision agriculture, and ensuring operational flexibility. For farm owners and managers, the calculation is increasingly straightforward—the return on investment is driven by direct input savings, preserved yield potential, and the ability to manage crops with unprecedented agility. The question is shifting from if to how and when to integrate UAVs into the farm’s operational blueprint.
