U.S. Air Force F-16C and F-15E Control Multiple XQ-58 Drones

The U.S. Air Force recently demonstrated a major leap in human-machine teaming, flying autonomous collaborative platforms (ACPs), alongside crewed fighter aircraft during a training event at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Pilots operating an F-16C Fighting Falcon and an F-15E Strike Eagle each controlled two XQ-58A Valkyrie aircraft in an air combat training scenario, showcasing […]

Airbus Prepares A400M for FCAS and Mothership Drone Operations

In view of increasingly demanding missions, the A400M‘s capabilities are constantly being expanded. Effective communication is an essential part of military operations, but it is also undergoing radical change. Connectivity is paramount, with data playing an ever more important role. Looking ahead, the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) will link together various platforms from 2040 onwards, enabling […]

Ukrainian Manufacturers Scale Up to Produce 4M Drones per Year

Ukrainian companies have increased their industrial capacity to produce four million drones a year, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said at a June 26 press briefing. The statement comes as Ukraine seeks to increase domestic arms production amid uncertainty over further U.S. support and reduced dependence on supplies from European partners. Ukrainian manufacturers will supply four […]

AeroVironment’s Wildcat Reaches Key Milestones in DARPA’s ANCILLARY Program’s EVADE Demonstration

– AeroVironment, Inc.  announced that its Wildcat unmanned aircraft system (UAS) has achieved a series of development milestones in support of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) Early VTOL Aircraft Demonstration (EVADE). Wildcat has successfully completed VTOL-to-forward-flight transitions, validated its core flight and propulsion systems, and begun integrating critical mission payloads—demonstrating rapid progress toward […]

US Soldiers Drop Live Grenades from Drones in Germany

The U.S. Army took a step toward integrating killer drones into its battlefield tactics after it dropped live grenades from the air at a training area in Germany last week. Members of the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment of the Tennessee Army National Guard on Wednesday became the first conventional soldiers to detonate an M67 fragmentation […]

1 Week Left! $2 Million in Grants to Boost Drone Innovation at LTU

Applications open until July 14 for Michigan-based startups Lawrence Technological University (LTU) is driving new growth in drone and mobility technology with a $2 million grant program announced by its Centrepolis Accelerator. The grant program for drone innovation will support tech entrepreneurs and small businesses in Michigan working on uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), autonomous navigation, […]

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Another Missed Deadline: The BVLOS NPRM Still Awaits Publication

(News and Commentary) Today marks exactly 31 days since President Trump’s executive orders on drone technology were published, making this the first day past the ambitious 30-day deadline for the FAA to issue the much-anticipated Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM). As the drone industry holds its collective breath, the […]

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Amazon Prime Day 2025: Top Drone Deals for Every Pilot

Amazon Prime Days 2025, running from July 8–11, features substantial discounts on a wide range of drones. Whether you’re a hobbyist, professional, or looking for a gift, there are options for every budget and skill level. Featured Drone Deals Here’s a breakdown of some of the best drone deals available for Prime Day, highlighting key […]

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Drones in Disaster: Why No-Fly Zones Matter During Texas Flood Rescue

When disaster strikes, drones can be a lifeline—providing critical aerial views, helping first responders find survivors, and supporting rescue operations. But during the catastrophic flooding in Texas, a clear message is coming from emergency teams: personal drones must stay grounded to make way for search and rescue efforts. The Role of Drones in Disasters Drones […]

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2025 Amazon Prime Day drone deals: The best discounts for aerial photographers

Amazon Prime Day — or more accurately, days — is back and bigger than ever. In 2025, the mega summer shopping event stretches across four full days, from July 8 at 12:01 a.m. PT through July 11 at midnight, giving Prime members 96 hours to score deals on millions of items — including drones and photography gear.

Whether you’re an aerial cinematographer, FPV racer, hobbyist drone flyer or someone just starting out, Prime Day can be a gold mine for scoring gear at a discount.

Keep in mind you do need to be an Amazon Prime member to shop these deals. However, you can get in on the action by signing up for a 30-day trial. Or, if you’re a student, you can get Amazon Prime for 50% off the usual price.

New for 2025 Amazon Prime Day: ‘Today’s Big Deals’

New this year, Amazon is launching a feature called “Today’s Big Deals,” which will include timed drops and themed sales on big brands. In the tech world, expect drops from big companies like Samsung. New offers could roll out every five minutes during peak times, so it’s worth checking often.

I’ll be keeping an eye out and updating this list as more drone-related deals drop.

The best 2025 Amazon Prime Day drone deals

Here are some of the best drone deals available for Prime Day that I know of so far (and expect more to come!):

30% off HoverAir drones

HOVERAirX1 PRO (left) versus HOVERAirX1 PROMAX (right).
HOVERAirX1 PRO (left) versus HOVERAirX1 PROMAX (right).

The HOVERAir X1 Pro and ProMax are a series of lightweight, foldable drones. Both make for some strong alternatives to DJI drones, such as the DJI Neo or the newer DJI Flip. The HOVERAir X1 PROMAX and HOVERAir X1 PRO drones launched in summer 2024 and have been going strong.

Sure, you can buy it now from B&H Photo or directly from HOVERAir, but Amazon is selling them for 30% off as part of their 2025 Amazon Prime Day sale.

Prime Day deals on cameras and gear drone creators love

23% off GoPro HERO13 Black

The GoPro HERO13 Black is the latest in action camera tech, built with aerial creators in mind. Offering 5.3K60 video, 27MP stills, and compatibility with the new HB-Series Lenses, it’s a serious upgrade for drone flyers who want cinematic footage without the bulk.

Launched in late 2024, the HERO13 Black delivers longer battery life, advanced stabilization, and better low-light performance than its predecessor. Whether mounted to a drone or used handheld for behind-the-scenes shots, it’s a top pick for aerial filmmakers.

Amazon is offering multiple versions at a discount (yes, the Polar White colorway is also available at the same discount).

  • Standard: $329 (was $429.99)
  • Creator Edition: $549.99 (was $649.99)
  • HERO13 Bundle: $379.00 (was $479.99)

31% off Echo Dot (5th Gen) + Marvel Iron Man Stand Bundle

This bundle pairs Amazon’s best-sounding Echo Dot with a Limited Edition Iron Man stand — a fun, functional addition to any smart drone studio. If you know Drone Girl, you know I love Disney and Marvel — so I had to throw this one in.

The 5th Gen Echo Dot generally stands out because it offers clearer vocals and deeper bass, ideal for playing music, controlling your smart devices, or managing voice-activated workflows. I chose this specific one purely for the Iron Man stand..

Normally $89.98, it’s $61.98 for Prime Day.

Whether you’re uploading 4K drone footage or livestreaming a flying session, reliable internet is key. The TP-Link Deco X55 Wi-Fi 6 Mesh System covers up to 6,500 square feet and supports up to 150 devices with strong, uninterrupted connectivity.

Each of the three nodes includes three gigabit Ethernet ports, ideal for creators with wired editing setups. The system uses AI-driven mesh technology to optimize your signal, room by room.

Originally $199.99, the 3-pack is now $149.98 — and it includes TP-Link HomeShield security features to protect your network.

50% off HANYCONY Surge Protector Power Strip

When traveling with drones, chargers, laptops, and cameras, power access is everything. The HANYCONY Surge Protector packs 8 AC outlets and 4 USB ports into a compact, wall-mountable strip with a flat plug — perfect for tight hotel setups or gear-heavy editing spaces.

This ETL-certified strip includes a 15A overload switch, 900J surge protection, and smart USB charging that automatically detects your device’s power needs.

Normally $19.99, it’s just $9.99 for Prime Day — and it could be one of the best under-$10 upgrades to your drone kit.

How to prep for Amazon Prime Day 2025

  • Get a Prime membership: Some deals are exclusive to Prime members. You can sign up for a free 30-day trial to shop the event.
  • Save even more as a young adult: If you’re between the ages of 18-24 (or you’re a student), you can get Amazon Prime for half off. It’s just $7.49 per month (rather than $14.99). Sign up for Amazon Prime Young Adult here.
  • Create a wishlist: Add your desired drones or gear to your cart or wishlist now. Amazon sometimes notifies you if they go on sale.
  • Watch lightning deals: These can disappear in minutes. Set alerts for your must-have items.

Stay tuned — I’ll update this guide as Amazon drops more drone deals. Whether you’re stocking up on gear for your next cinematic short or prepping for commercial drone work, Prime Day 2025 is shaping up to be an excellent time to build out your aerial toolkit.

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