A Golden Retriever mix named Abbie, who ran over 25 miles along the New Jersey Turnpike, was successfully located and rescued using drone thermal imaging by the USAR Drone Team, with assistance from local authorities, after escaping from a shelter transport.
In 2025, Russian forces increased their territorial gains in Ukraine through a new operational template supported by technological innovations like fiber optic UAVs and drone strikes, despite high casualties and mixed success in achieving strategic goals. Ukraine has responded with its own drone campaigns, and Russia continues to target Ukrainian infrastructure with extensive missile and drone strikes. The conflict remains dynamic with ongoing battles and technological adaptations on both sides.
DJI has announced its first robot vacuum, the Romo, which incorporates drone technology for obstacle detection and avoidance, features a transparent design in some models, and offers powerful suction and smart cleaning features. The vacuum is initially launching in China with plans for a global release later this year, but not immediately in the US.
A 2025 study using drone imagery revealed up to 92% coral mortality at Lizard Island during the 2024 bleaching event, highlighting severe damage to the Great Barrier Reef and emphasizing the urgent need for climate action to protect marine ecosystems.
Ukrainian air-defense drones are rapidly evolving with upgrades like night-vision and advanced guidance to counter the increasing threat of Russian Shahed suicide drones, which are being produced in large quantities and flying at higher altitudes, challenging Ukraine's defense capabilities.
A retired Indian Air Force pilot suggests that Ukraine may have used a modified drone, possibly similar to the US' Project LongShot, to target and shoot down Russian A-50 AWACS aircraft. The shooting has raised questions about the mechanism used and the vulnerability of Russian air assets. The A-50s, vital for monitoring Ukrainian airspace, have been targeted by Ukraine, leading to speculation about the use of advanced drone technology and tactics. The shootdown has also sparked debates about accidental fratricide and deliberate provocation, with Ukraine claiming it was a joint operation.
The Netherlands has joined a military coalition, along with Britain and other allies, to supply Ukraine with advanced drone technology in addition to other military support, aiming to bolster Ukraine's offensive capabilities in its war against Russia. The Dutch Defence Minister stated that drones are crucial in the conflict and that the coalition will provide the latest technology and production support to meet Ukraine's needs. This move comes as both Ukraine and Russia increasingly rely on drones for reconnaissance and attacks, with Ukraine aiming to manufacture thousands of long-range drones capable of deep strikes into Russia in 2024.
DJI, a leader in drone technology, has launched their first 3D model editing software called DJI Modify, designed to work seamlessly with DJI Terra for industries such as surveying, mapping, urban planning, firefighting, and emergency response. The software aims to streamline model editing tasks, including repairing drone-captured 3D models, removing floating parts, flattening areas, repairing textures, filling holes, and repairing water surfaces. DJI Modify is currently available for free trial for six months and represents DJI's expansion beyond drone manufacturing into the realm of intelligent editing software for film and video production.
Bolivia's defense minister confirmed the country's interest in obtaining Iranian drone technology to enhance border security and combat smuggling and drug trafficking. This comes after Argentina expressed concerns and requested information about an agreement between Iran and Bolivia. The defense minister dismissed the concerns as exaggerated and speculated that they were politically motivated. While Bolivia denies signing a memorandum of understanding with Iran, it expressed interest in Iranian high-tech drones for monitoring mountainous areas. The reported deal raised concerns in Argentina due to past allegations of Iranian involvement in a bombing incident. Bolivia emphasized its pacifist stance and denied any threat.
Bolivia's defense minister confirmed the country's interest in obtaining Iranian drone technology to protect its borders and combat smuggling and drug trafficking. This comes after Argentina expressed security concerns and requested information about an agreement reached between Iran and Bolivia. The Bolivian minister dismissed the concerns as exaggerated and speculated that they were politically motivated. While he denied signing a memorandum of understanding with Iran, he acknowledged signing an "act" to identify common points of interest. The reported deal has raised concerns in Argentina, which has long alleged Iranian involvement in the 1994 bombing of a Jewish community center in Buenos Aires. Bolivia's defense minister emphasized that the visit to Tehran should not be seen as a threat and reiterated Bolivia's commitment to pacifism.