Drones 1 September 2025 - 11 September 2025

Cheap first-person view drones costing under $1,000 have destroyed about two-thirds of Russia’s tanks in recent operations, according to NATO. Both Ukraine and Russia now deploy thousands of drones for reconnaissance, artillery spotting, and attacks, with kamikaze models regularly disabling armored vehicles worth millions. Each Ukrainian combat brigade fields dedicated drone units. Russian forces rely on Iranian-supplied Shahed-136s for city strikes.

Slovenia requires all drone operators flying drones over 250 g or with cameras to register and pass an online exam. Drones may fly up to 120 m, must remain within visual line of sight, and cannot operate over populated areas like Ljubljana without special permits. Night flying is banned for hobbyists. Flights near airports are restricted, and privacy laws apply to all camera drones.

Morocco has banned drones for the general public since 2015, making import or use without prior authorization illegal nationwide. Customs routinely confiscate undeclared drones, and unauthorized use can result in arrest, fines of 1,165 dirhams, and seizure. Recreational flights are prohibited; commercial operators need special permits for each flight. Authorities monitor airports and public spaces for violations.

DJI launched the Air 3 drone on July 25, 2023, starting at $1,099 with the RC-N2 controller. The drone features two 48 MP cameras, up to 46 minutes of flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing. It uses DJI’s new O4 HD transmission for a 20 km range and supports multiple intelligent flight modes. Weighs about 720 g and meets Remote ID requirements.

DJI’s new Matrice 400 drone flies up to 59 minutes per charge, supports 6 kg payloads, and debuts a 360° obstacle sensing suite using spinning LiDAR and radar. The M400 features IP55 weather sealing, a 40 km video link, and advanced AI for object detection and terrain following. It uses a single high-capacity TB100 battery, supports hot swaps, and is compatible with DJI’s latest enterprise payloads.

Large parts of Johannesburg fall under strict no-fly zones due to multiple airports, with drones banned within 10 km of airfields and over sensitive sites. Recreational pilots need no license for drones under 7 kg but must follow altitude and distance rules. Commercial operators require a Remote Pilot Certificate and SACAA registration. Violations can result in up to 10 years in prison or a R50,000 fine.