– Shield AI, the deep-tech company building state-of-the-art autonomy software products and defense aircraft, has announced that the Netherlands Ministry of Defence has procured eight V-BAT unmanned aircraft systems to enhance maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) operations for the Royal Netherlands Navy and Marine Corps. The deal was publicly announced at the Maritime Uncrewed […]
– TEKEVER, a European provider of AI-driven autonomous systems, has chosen Cahors as the location for its new Centre of Excellence for dual-use autonomous systems in France. This choice is the result of close collaboration with the Occitanie region, which played a major role in supporting the company at every stage of the process. This […]
– Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. company, has been down-selected for Phase 2 of Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Speed and Runway Independent Technologies (SPRINT) X-Plane program with the objective to complete design, construction, ground testing and certification of an X-plane demonstrator. “Bell is honoured to have been selected for the next phase […]
In a demonstration of multi-domain versatility, the Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar has achieved a milestone by proving that its AI-powered Kemankeş 1 loitering munition can engage airborne threats, not just ground targets. This unprecedented capability was showcased when the Kemankeş 1 was launched from the Bayraktar Akıncı UCAV and successfully intercepted aerial target mid-flight. This […]
Conventional drones use visual sensors for navigation. However, environmental conditions like dampness, low light, and dust can hinder their effectiveness, limiting their use in disaster-stricken areas. Researchers from Japan have developed a novel bio-hybrid drone by combining robotic elements with odor-sensing antennae from silkworm moths. Their innovation, which integrates the agility and precision of robots […]
Amazon Prime Day 2025 — or rather, Prime Days — is in full swing. With just one day left, it’s time to lock in some of the best drone and creator-tech deals of the year. The 2025 Prime Day event kicked off July 8 at 12:01 a.m. PT and runs through July 11 at midnight, giving Amazon Prime members four full days (96 hours!) to save big.
Whether you’re a drone racing pro, aerial photography enthusiast, hobbyist, or first-time flyer, this is one of the best times of the year to invest in new tech — from drones and cameras to accessories and editing gear.
Now there are TONS of drones on sale for 2025 Prime Day. My take? Most of these are junk. I parsed out the drone deals to find the good ones from reputable drone makers. In fact, I’ve reviewed all these drones myself, and truly endorse any of these models:
I called the DJI Mini 4K the best value for the price in my guide to DJI drones under $500. Now, for Prime Day 2025, it’s even less than $400. It weighs under 249g — meaning no registration required (for hobby use). This Fly More Combo includes three batteries for up to 93 minutes of total flight time, all in a compact, travel-friendly kit.
DJI Neo Three-Battery Combo – 21% off
Sally French, The Drone Girl, and the DJI Neo drone. (Photo by Sally French)
One of my favorite beginner drones (and a great drone for kids), the DJI Neo is palm-sized, beginner-friendly, and shoots 4K video. It’s great for casual creators and kids alike — and it doesn’t require FAA registration. This bundle includes three batteries.
A solid mid-range drone for serious photographers. The Air 3 offers dual cameras, omnidirectional obstacle sensing, and up to 46 minutes of flight time. It’s not the top-of-the-line Air 3S — but it comes close, for far less (do check out my guide to the DJI Air 3 versus DJI Air 3S).
30% off HoverAir drones
HOVERAirX1 PRO (left) versus HOVERAirX1 PROMAX (right).
Both the HOVERAir X1 Pro and PROMAX drones are on sale. These compact, foldable flyers launched in summer 2024 and offer smart, lightweight alternatives to DJI drones, like the DJI Neo or DJI Flip.
This is the one drone in this guide that I haven’t tested myself, but it looks pretty interesting for STEM enthusiast. It’s a drone you build yourself (it takes about 1.5 hours to assemble). Once built, you’re looking at a drone with a 1080p camera, optical flow hovering, brushless motors, and five flight modes including 360° flips and one-click takeoff.
The GoPro HERO13 Black is built for cinematic drone work — with 5.3K video, 27MP stills, and support for modular lenses. Whether mounted to a quadcopter or used for behind-the-scenes content, it’s a top-tier action cam for aerial creators.
Though not the newest in DJI’s action camera lineup (that would be the Osmo Action 5), the Action 4 offers 4K/120fps capture, long battery life, and rugged, waterproof performance — all at a budget-friendly price.
2025 Prime Day discounts on tech and accessories for drone creators
My personal favorite way to carry a DJI RC and phone in style. This leather crossbody offers sleek storage, internal zips, and a molded pocket — perfect for fashion-forward drone pilots on the move.
Perfect for fieldwork: block background noise while reviewing footage or taking calls with crystal clarity. Adaptive transparency and spatial audio round out the experience.
Amazon’s best-sounding Echo Dot plus a Marvel-themed Iron Man stand? Yes, please. It’s voice-controlled smart tech with a fun, nerdy twist — ideal for controlling your drone workspace.
Reliable Wi-Fi is essential when uploading drone footage or livestreaming a flight. This mesh system covers up to 6,500 sq ft and supports 150 devices, with three gigabit Ethernet ports per unit and AI-optimized connectivity.
Originally $199.99, the 3-pack is now $149.98 — and it includes TP-Link HomeShield security features to protect your network.
How to maximize your Prime Day 2025 deals
Get a Prime membership: Don’t forget — most deals are exclusive to Prime members. You can sign up for a free 30-day trial to get in on the action
Prosper P.D. launches DFR 2.0 program with Flock Safety technology By DRONELIFE Features Editor Jim Magill As police departments across the U.S. embrace the concept of using drones as first responders (DFR), some law enforcement agencies, such as the Prosper, Texas Police Department, are moving forward into the future with DFR 2.0. The department recently […]
The new platform offers faster workflows, safer urban operations, and broad payload flexibility for surveyors worldwide. Wingtra’s new drone, WingtraRAY, designed to push the limits of aerial surveying and mapping. The WingtraRAY is built specifically for surveyors and promises to remove many of the operational barriers they face today. One major highlight is its ability to […]
When President Trump announced a sweeping 50% tariff on all Brazilian imports, most people probably thought about coffee, beef, or soybeans. But for the drone industry, this trade move could shake up some critical supply chains in ways that might surprise you. The Brazilian Connection Brazil might not be the first country that comes to […]
We have just learned that one of the most successful adaptations of an existing weapon in recent memory — morphing laser-guided air-to-ground rockets into counter-drone weapons — can be accommodated on A-10 Warthog. The version of the Advanced Precision Kill Weapons System II (APKWS II) takes 2.75 in. (70mm) Hydra rockets and turns them into […]
– Shield AI, the deep-tech company building state-of-the-art autonomy software products and defense aircraft, has announced that the Netherlands Ministry of Defence has procured eight V-BAT unmanned aircraft systems to enhance maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) operations for the Royal Netherlands Navy and Marine Corps. The deal was publicly announced at the Maritime Uncrewed […]
