American Drone Network Collaborates with BRANDT to Enhance Agricultural Drone Spraying Technology

New Partnership to Enhance Agricultural Drone Operations

American Drone Network (ADN) has formed a partnership with BRANDT to advance agricultural drone operations. The collaboration aims to improve the performance of crop inputs when applied via drones and enhance pilot efficiency in the field.

Development of Specialized Products

The two companies will work together to create adjuvant, nutritional, and surfactant systems specifically designed for drone spraying. These products are intended to optimize the spread, adhesion, and absorption of chemicals on crops.

ADN members will have access to select BRANDT products and can utilize BRANDT’s established distribution network, which is expected to enhance product availability and streamline logistics for operators throughout the United States.

Importance of Spray Performance in Drone Applications

Drone spraying introduces distinct challenges compared to traditional ground or manned aerial applications. Factors such as droplet size, coverage, and drift significantly influence product effectiveness.

Research from Ohio State University Extension emphasizes that proper spray application is essential for effective crop protection. Key factors affecting results include droplet size, spray pressure, and environmental conditions. Ineffective application can lead to reduced efficacy and increased off-target movement.

• Smaller droplets improve coverage but may drift more easily.
• Larger droplets reduce drift but may not provide sufficient coverage.

This balance is particularly crucial for drone operations, which typically operate at lower altitudes and utilize smaller spray volumes. Adjuvants and surfactants can mitigate these challenges by enhancing droplet spread, minimizing evaporation, and increasing adhesion to plant surfaces, thereby contributing to consistent results in drone-based spraying.

Focus on Training and Compliance

The partnership also prioritizes training and proper application practices. BRANDT representatives will participate in ADN’s Drone Days regional training events, which will cover product selection, mixing procedures, and tank compatibility, as well as adjuvant selection and application techniques. Participants will have the opportunity to earn continuing education credits for pesticide applicator license renewals.

Charlie Booker, ADN training director, stated, “Chemicals are only effective when applied correctly. We are committed to providing the education and support that ensures pilots apply products at proper rates, with compatible tank mixes, under appropriate conditions and in compliance with label requirements.”

This emphasis on training aligns with a broader industry trend, as the use of drones in agriculture expands. Operators are expected to meet the same standards as traditional applicators, ensuring compliance with regulations while enhancing outcomes for farmers.

Integration of Digital Tools

ADN plans to incorporate access to BRANDT products into its digital platform, which will feature inventory tools, application rate calculators, and automated documentation. This integration aims to connect chemical usage with flight records, improving traceability and simplifying reporting requirements.

Booker noted, “We’re building toward a fully integrated platform where chemical selection, application, and documentation flow seamlessly. Our partnership with BRANDT is a foundation for that integrated experience.”

This type of integration could alleviate administrative burdens for operators and support data-driven decision-making in the field.

Expanding the Agricultural Drone Network

The partnership with BRANDT is part of ADN’s ongoing growth strategy. Earlier this year, the company acquired CropFlight, a flight logging and operational management platform, which helped establish the largest agricultural drone pilot network in the nation.

ADN continues to expand its ecosystem to support pilots and farmers, with Booker stating, “We’re not building a product company or a service company — we’re building a complete ecosystem that addresses every obstacle preventing pilots from succeeding and farmers from receiving professional service. The BRANDT partnership is one critical piece.”

As agricultural drones become increasingly prevalent, collaborations like this are expected to play a significant role in enhancing performance and adoption within the industry.