The drone ecosystem in Spain has shown significant growth in recent years, with a 32% increase in the number of registered operators by 2023. Spain has more than 94,000 drone operators and has issued more than 183,000 pilot certificates through 508 training entities, reflecting the interest in adopting this technology. This increase is also accompanied by a series of regulations, such as Royal Decree 517/2024, which establishes a legal framework for the civil use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), fostering legal stability in the sector.
Economically, the global drone market is valued at USD 35.28 billion by 2024, with a projected growth to USD 67.64 billion by 2029. In Spain, the sectors most benefiting from this technology are agriculture, construction, energy and internal business services. The introduction of drones with alternative fuels and the use of composite materials in their manufacture also boost the competitiveness of companies in the country.
(Mordor Intelligence, DroneII)
The future of the sector in Spain looks positive. According to recent surveys, Spanish companies are more optimistic than the global average about the market’s potential over the next 12 months. Despite economic challenges such as inflation and regulatory issues, the use of drones is expected to continue to expand, with significant advances in areas such as package delivery and the automation of critical tasks in various industries.
(DroneII)
This growth in adoption and technological improvements opens up many opportunities for companies such as Iberia Compositech Manufacturing, which specialise in the production of advanced components, such as composite materials, which are essential for optimising drone capabilities in various sectors.
The drone sector in Spain has not only grown exponentially in civilian applications, but has also seen a significant boost in the defence field.
In terms of defence investments, Spain has demonstrated its capacity for technological innovation through strategic projects such as the acquisition of SIRTAP tactical drones, developed by Airbus Defence.
This system is designed for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, and is key to strengthening national sovereignty. The Ministry of Defence has invested approximately 595 million euros in the purchase of 27 SIRTAP drones, with production scheduled for 2025.
(La Razón)
This boom in the use of drones in defence has led to more companies, such as Iberia Compositech Manufacturing, having opportunities to develop and supply advanced composite materials that improve the performance and efficiency of these systems.
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