Russian scientists from the Crimean Federal University named after VI. Vernadsky have advanced a drone prototype designed for vineyard tillage and plant care. This development was reported to Socialbites.ca via the press service of the Priority 2030 program under the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia, signaling a concerted effort to blend agriculture with cutting edge robotics.
The innovation centers on a prototype unmanned chassis boasting substantial ground clearance, tailored for working through vineyards. It carries emitters capable of disinfecting soil and plant surfaces with infrared and ultraviolet light, and it includes spraying equipment along with mechanical tillage components mounted on the tree trunk area. The dual radiation approach is intended to curb pathogenic microflora, potentially reducing disease pressure by well over 90 percent in treated zones.
The chassis offers a clearance of up to 2.2 meters and features a track width adjustable between 1.2 and 1.8 meters, enabling it to traverse beneath the canopy without damaging trellises or foliage. Operations are managed remotely by an operator, allowing precise control over movement and task cycles in a vineyard setting.
According to representatives from the KFU Academy of Agricultural Technology, vineyards are among the most chemically intensive crops, often receiving treatments up to twenty times in a single growing season. By lowering the chemical load, the project aims to deliver a strong healing effect for soil, foliage, air quality, and even farm workers, aligning with sustainable farming goals and safer agronomic practices for Canada, the United States, and global almond, grape, and fruit crop producers. The comments attributed to Alexey Zavaliy, head of the general technical disciplines department, emphasize an approach that targets reduced chemical reliance without compromising crop health and yield.
The chassis is built around a rectangular frame with four telescopic struts supporting wheel assemblies—front wheels designed for steering and rear wheels for propulsion. Behind the platform sits the power unit, consisting of a diesel engine, a gearbox, and transmissions that drive the system. At the front end, the structure is sized to carry a payload of up to 200 kilograms, enabling it to accommodate additional sensors or treatment modules as needed for diverse vineyard terrains and crop protection regimes.
Beyond this development, Russia has previously introduced innovations such as inhalation masks for calves designed to prevent and treat respiratory diseases, illustrating a broader push toward integrating practical, field-ready technologies across agricultural sectors. This focus on bridging advanced engineering with real-world farming challenges resonates with producers seeking more efficient, safer, and environmentally conscious cultivation methods in North America and beyond.