Report sheds light on the strengths of the start-up driven Swiss drone industry

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07.07.2021
symbolic picture Wingtra drone
The first Swiss Drone Industry Report, which has just been published, paints a dynamic picture of the industry. A high number of start-ups are active in numerous niche markets and ensure a high export share due to innovations.

4800 people are already working in the Swiss drone industry. In total, a turnover of 521 million Swiss francs is generated. These are two of the key results of Swiss Drone Industry Report. The report is published by the Drone Industry Association Switzerland (DIAS) and researched and written by a specialised German market research institute.

Compared internationally, the Swiss industry has several special characteristics. The share of start-ups that are no more than five years old is high at 60%. Furthermore, there is a high proportion of companies that offer hardware solutions compared to other countries. These include special drones, components such as drives or sensors, or anti-drone solutions. In addition, there are also important software providers. The wide range of products and services is astonishing. According to the report, Swiss drone companies have a leading presence in nearly all niche segments for drones.

The innovative hardware and software companies are internationally successful. The export share for hardware companies is 89%, for software companies it is actually 96%. In total, the industries generate a turnover of more than 230 million Swiss francs abroad.

Success factors

Switzerland has benefitted from very early involvement in drone technologies and applications. The label “Swiss-made”, access to talent, and the local ecosystem make Switzerland a very attractive place for innovative drone companies; especially disruptive startups. The current Swiss regulatory framework is perceived as favorably permissive, thanks to the support from proactive national regulators.

The Report relays the main recommendations of Swiss drone experts: foster stronger collaboration amongst local drone companies; attract, train and improve access to talents in hardware and software disciplines; make it easier to test and bring products to market, and promote the societal benefits of drone technologies and services.

The full report can be downloaded from the DIAS website

(SK)
Picture: Wingtra

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