HARRISON, NEW JERSEY (RFD News) — The FBI is investigating the theft of several agricultural drones in New Jersey. According to a report on The High Side, 15 drone sprayers, valued at more than $750,000, were taken by someone posing as a delivery driver.
The drones can spray up to 40 gallons of liquid chemicals over roughly 15 acres.
A former FBI agent cited in the report says equipment like this could be easily misused if it ends up in the wrong hands.
RFD News has reached out to the USDA for comment and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Drones are becoming a vital tool for many farmers, and as the growing season progresses, operators are being encouraged to give right-of-way to low-altitude manned aircraft.
Andrew Moore, CEO of the National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA), joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report with an update on safety and coordination in the airspace.
In his interview with RFD News, Moore discussed the importance of agricultural aircraft for treating cropland and how the rise in drone use is changing the landscape. He also outlined what drone operators need to keep in mind as manned ag aircraft take flight this growing season and emphasized the importance of following safety protocols.
In addition, Moore addressed potential risks if those protocols are not followed and shared key steps both drone operators and pilots can take to help avoid collisions. He also spoke to reports of stolen ag spray drones in New Jersey under FBI investigation, and whether there are broader concerns tied to that situation.
