Solar-Powered UAV Market - By Mode of Operation, By Type, By Range, By End-user & Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Solar-Powered UAV Market Size

The global solar-powered UAV market was valued at USD 356.3 million in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.2% from 2025 to 2034.
 

The global focus on sustainability is a primary driver for solar-powered UAV adoption. As concerns about carbon emissions and environmental impact increase, industries are seeking eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fuel-powered vehicles. Solar-powered UAVs offer a cleaner solution by reducing fossil fuel dependence, helping companies and governments meet sustainability targets.
 

For instance, In October 2024, AeroVironment (AV) successfully tested its upgraded solar-powered aircraft, Horus A, marking a major advancement in high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) flight. Developed in partnership with SoftBank, this latest version of the Sunglider platform enhances stratospheric payload capabilities, positioning it for key government and commercial applications such as surveillance and telecommunications.
 

Sectors such as agriculture, surveillance, and telecommunications require long-duration flights, which solar UAVs can provide without frequent recharging or fuel consumption. This demand for sustainable, cost-efficient, and environmentally friendly technologies positions solar-powered UAVs as a viable solution in the evolving drone market.
 

Advancements in solar panel technology have improved the efficiency and energy conversion rates of solar cells, enhancing their suitability for UAV applications. Lightweight, high-efficiency solar panels now generate more power from the same surface area, enabling UAVs to fly for extended periods without large batteries. For instance, A 4-gram solar-powered drone, the smallest of its kind, has successfully flown using an electrostatic motor and tiny solar panels generating high voltages. While the hummingbird-sized prototype flew for just an hour, its developers believe this technology could lead to insect-sized drones capable of staying airborne indefinitely.
 

These innovations have made solar-powered drones more practical for long-duration missions including surveillance, environmental monitoring, and remote sensing. As solar cells become more efficient and cost-effective, they will continue to drive the growth of the market, offering enhanced performance and reduced operational costs for commercial and industrial applications.
 

Solar-Powered UAV Market Trends

The solar-powered UAV industry is growing rapidly due to advancements in lightweight materials and energy-efficient designs. Industries seeking longer endurance are turning to drones with high-performance solar panels. Agriculture, defense, telecommunications, and environmental monitoring sectors are adopting solar UAVs for extended flight times and real-time data collection.
 

For instance, Solar Industries in India secured an order to supply its indigenous UAV, Nagastra, to the Indian Army, outpacing competitors from Israel and Poland. Developed by its subsidiary, Economics Explosives Ltd, in collaboration with Z-Motion, the Nagastra-1 is India’s first indigenous Loiter Munition (LM), supporting the government's push for self-reliance in defense. These drones reduce operational costs and carbon footprints, making them suitable for remote and off-grid areas with limited charging infrastructure. The market is witnessing increased collaborations between technology firms and aerospace companies to enhance innovation.
 

AI and autonomous technologies are becoming integral to the solar-powered UAV market. AI-driven systems optimize flight paths, energy consumption, and mission planning, improving operational efficiency. Solar UAVs with AI capabilities are expected to lead in sectors such as border patrol, disaster management, and infrastructure monitoring, meeting the growing demand for autonomous surveillance and data collection.
 

For instance, In April 2024, Airbus announced plans to spin off its Zephyr drone program, a high-altitude solar-powered UAV known for its long endurance and ability to provide persistent surveillance and communications. The move aims to attract external investors and partners to accelerate the development and commercialization of the technology. The Zephyr drone is used in applications like monitoring remote areas, environmental research, and enhancing communication networks in underserved regions.
 

Solar-Powered UAV Market Analysis

A key restraint in the solar-powered UAV industry is the dependency on weather conditions, as inconsistent sunlight can limit flight durations. However, this creates an opportunity for hybrid UAVs that combine solar power with battery or fuel systems for more reliable performance. Regulatory challenges include airspace management and certification requirements for high-altitude UAVs, particularly for commercial use. As governments develop more UAV-friendly policies and standards, these regulations could become more supportive, facilitating the market's growth and broader adoption.
 

Based on mode of operation, the solar-powered UAV market is segmented into semi-autonomous, autonomous. In 2024, the semi-autonomous segment accounted for the largest market share with 74.7% share.
 

Semi-autonomous solar-powered UAVs operate with a combination of human oversight and autonomous systems. They typically handle tasks like navigation, obstacle avoidance, and energy management autonomously, while a human operator monitors the mission, makes strategic decisions, or intervenes when necessary. This mode of operation enhances safety, reduces the need for constant human control, and allows for more complex missions, such as long-duration surveillance or environmental monitoring, with less human resource involvement.
 

The semi-autonomous approach strikes a balance between full autonomy and manual control, offering flexibility and reliability. For solar-powered UAVs, it ensures efficient energy management, allowing the drone to adjust flight paths based on solar availability. This operational mode is particularly useful in applications like remote sensing, where both real-time decision-making and endurance are critical, making it a strong contender in sectors like agriculture, defense, and communications.
 

Based on range, the market is divided into less than 300 KM, more than 300 KM. In 2024, the range of more than 300 KM segment is expected to be the fastest-growing segment with a CAGR of 11.3% during the forecast period.
 

Solar-powered UAVs with a range exceeding 300 km are transforming long-duration missions by offering sustained, high-altitude flight capabilities. These drones can traverse extensive distances without frequent recharging, making them suitable for remote surveillance, environmental monitoring, and telecommunications in underserved areas. Their capacity for extended airborne operation allows for continuous monitoring of large geographic regions, providing real-time data with minimal operational interruptions.
 

The 300+ km range creates new possibilities for sectors such as defense, agriculture, and disaster management. In applications like border patrol or wildlife conservation, these UAVs can survey vast territories without relying on ground-based infrastructure. Their long-range capabilities also enable more economical solutions for global connectivity, potentially serving as alternatives to satellite systems for remote communication and offering a sustainable option compared to conventional aerial platforms.
 

In 2024, the North America solar-powered UAV market held the largest share of 32.5%, and it is predicted to reach over USD 250 million by 2034. North America, particularly the U.S., is a key market for solar-powered UAVs, driven by strong demand in sectors like defense, agriculture, and telecommunications. The U.S. government’s interest in advanced UAVs for surveillance, border control, and environmental monitoring accelerates innovation. Additionally, North America's regulatory environment supports the growth of UAV technologies, with increasing investments in research and development, as well as collaboration between private companies and governmental agencies to push the boundaries of solar-powered drone capabilities.
 

China is progressing rapidly in solar-powered UAV technology, aiming to become a global leader in aerospace innovation. The country's extensive geographic area and varied environmental conditions make solar UAVs suitable for surveillance, environmental monitoring, and agricultural applications. Strong government support and investments in drone technology and infrastructure are facilitating the development of advanced UAVs. The increasing demand for commercial and military UAVs further enhances the potential for solar-powered solutions in the region.
 

Germany is a significant contributor to the European UAV market, concentrating on commercial and industrial applications for solar-powered drones. The country's focus on renewable energy and sustainability aligns with solar UAV adoption, particularly in agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and environmental monitoring. German companies are developing lightweight, efficient solar panels for UAVs, with research aimed at improving endurance. Strict regulations and a focus on high-quality manufacturing are also driving market growth.
 

Japan is making substantial investments in solar UAV technology, utilizing its expertise in electronics and robotics. The country's requirements for effective disaster management, surveillance, and environmental monitoring in extensive rural areas present significant opportunities for solar-powered drones. Japanese firms are focusing on integrating solar power with advanced AI for autonomous flight, optimizing energy usage. Japan's progressive regulatory framework and strong industry collaboration are accelerating the development and commercialization of solar UAVs for public and private sector applications.
 

South Korea is adopting solar-powered UAVs for military, infrastructure, and environmental monitoring applications. The country's technology-driven economy and focus on drone innovation make it a notable player in the market. Solar UAVs in South Korea are viewed as a solution to reduce fuel dependence and extend mission durations, particularly in defense and surveillance operations. The government's support for advanced UAV technologies and smart city initiatives creates a favorable environment for the growth of solar-powered drones in the region.
 

Solar-Powered UAV Market Share

Elektra develops innovative solar-powered UAVs focused on lightweight, high-endurance designs for commercial and industrial uses like agriculture, surveillance, and environmental monitoring. Eos Technologie specializes in long-endurance stratospheric solar UAVs for telecommunications, remote sensing, and military applications, with a focus on hybrid propulsion and operational efficiency. BAE Systems works on solar UAVs for defense, emphasizing high-altitude, long-duration flights to provide surveillance, reconnaissance, and communication capabilities in remote or hostile environments. Each company is contributing to advancing sustainable UAV solutions across various sectors.
 

Solar-Powered UAV Market Companies

Major players operating in the solar-powered UAV industry are:

• AeroVironment Inc.
• Airbus SE
• Atlantik Solar
• Aurora Flight Sciences
• Avy
• BAE Systems
• Chinese Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics
• DJI
• Elektra
• Eos Technologie
• Kea Aerospace
• Korea Aerospace Research Institute
• QinetiQ
• Silent Falcon UAS Technologies
• Skydweller Aero
• Sunbirds SAS
• Uav-instruments
• Xsun
   

Solar-Powered UAV Industry News

• In July 2023, BAE Systems’ PHASA-35 solar-electric drone reached over 66,000 feet, entering the stratosphere during a successful trial in New Mexico. Developed by Prismatic Ltd, PHASA-35 is designed for ultra-long endurance missions like surveillance, communications, and disaster relief. It offers a stable platform for applications such as 4G/5G delivery and border protection, providing an alternative to satellites and traditional aircraft.
   
• In April 2023, Kea Aerospace launched the solar-powered Kea Atmos Mk 1, an uncrewed stratospheric aircraft designed for high-altitude flight testing. With a 12.5-meter wingspan and weighing under 40 kg, it can reach altitudes up to 50,000 feet, surpassing commercial airliners. The aircraft is launched using an electric Audi e-tron Sportback, highlighting a blend of sustainable aviation technology and electric mobility.
   

This Solar-Powered UAV market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD million) volume (Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Mode of Operation

• Semi-autonomous
• Autonomous

Market, By Type

• Fixed wing drones
• Multirotor drones
• Hybrid

Market, By Range

• Less Than 300 KM
• More Than 300 KM

Market, By End-user

• Government & Defense
• Commercial
• Agricultural
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Australia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa