The drone age for all: The real challenge is only beginning - opinion

Almost anyone can build and fly a drone today. Readily available components, technical knowledge, and inexpensive development tools have made the world of unmanned systems more accessible than ever. However, turning an aircraft into a reliable, safe, and legally compliant operational system remains a significant challenge.The global drone race is heating up. New companies are entering the market, major investments are flowing into the sector, and traditional defense industries are being forced to adapt.Yet there is a fundamental difference between building an aircraft and delivering a reliable operational capability, particularly in crowded and complex airspace, both military and civilian. This requires expertise in aviation, engineering, command and control, safety, regulation, and an understanding of user needs.The pressure to reach the market quickly can lead to compromises in development and testing, undermining reliability and increasing safety risks. This is particularly significant as artificial intelligence and autonomy advance in aviation.Not everything AI is capable of doing should be entrusted to it. It is essential to define where human involvement is required, who is accountable for decisions, and where the boundaries of autonomy lie. Technology can expand capabilities, but it cannot replace professional judgment and experience.A drone is a complex system of systems, fundamentally different from a missile or a manned aircraft.