Five unmanned plant protection helicopters became one of the most eye-catching exhibitors during the 16th International Fruit, Vegetable and Food Exposition which opened in Yantai, East China's Shandong Province on Oct 16.

Visitors take photos of the unmanned plant protection helicopters at the 16th International Fruit, Vegetable and Food Exposition which is held in Yantai, East China's Shandong Province, Oct 16-19. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

According to its producer, Shandong Zhongyu Aviation Technology Development Co, the drones feature low flying altitude, precise positioning, hovering and less pollution. Powered by gasoline, a drone is able to fly 30 minutes for each full tank. However, controllers would need to get professional pilot licenses.

As far as price is concern, each drone costs 280,000 yuan ($44,075) and it could be used for pesticide spreading, fire extinguishing and terrain reconnaissance. A helicopter can spread pesticides for over 100 mu (6.67 hectares) of plants, which is 80 to 100 times more than manual operation, claimed an official of the aviation company.

In addition to farming, the company has also designed drones for the use of animal husbandry works, like to monitor the grassland, water source and animals.

Edited by Shahnawaz Akhtar