The implementation of drone-assisted irrigation systems represents a cutting-edge innovation with significant potential to optimize agricultural management in eastern Romania, a region characterized by diverse climatic and agronomic conditions. Advances in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology enable precise water distribution and real-time monitoring using multispectral sensors and aerial imagery, improving water use efficiency, and increasing crop resilience to environmental variability. The main objective of this research is to evaluate the most effective innovative drone-assisted irrigation model for agricultural development in this region. For this reason, a qualitative methodology was followed to compare the DJI Agras T30, DJI Agras T40, and XAG P100 models in terms of operational performance, technical specifications, and relative costs compared to the size of farms that represent part of the country's emerging commercial agriculture (5-10 ha) in Romania so that accurate agricultural data can be determined in a timely manner for informed decision-making and sustainable planning. The results reveal that all drone models in the study fulfill the optimal irrigation purpose for 5-10 hectares of farms. Although the DJI Agras T40 and XAP P100 models have more advanced technology, the DJI Agras T30 model demonstrates ideal performance with an operational capacity of 16 hectares per hour, advanced altitude control systems, wide spray coverage, among other features that make it a very efficient and adaptable option for local agricultural conditions. Its integration with smart mapping systems supports data-driven decision-making, promoting productivity and water conservation. Although its implementation is limited by the permits that must be legally obtained, high initial costs, reduced battery life, maintenance, and specialized training, drone-assisted irrigation systems are a viable and strategic approach to improving water efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness in the agricultural sector of eastern Romania.

agriculture, water deficit, drones, UAV, assisted irrigation, eastern Romania

geodesy engineering

Presentation: poster