Blog
INSIGHTS FROM THE FIELD.
The Red Raven UAS Blog is your go-to source for expert insights, industry news, and real-world applications of drone technology. From training tips and mission planning to FAA updates and gear breakdowns, we cover what drone pilots, trainers, and agencies need to know. Whether you’re studying for your Part 107, building out a UAS program, or just staying sharp—this is where information meets impact.
5 Signs Your Agency Needs A Drone Program
Most agencies that don't have a drone program aren't opposed to drones — they just don't know where to start. Here are five clear signs your agency is ready, and what building a real program actually looks like.
UAS Weekly Briefing — April 17, 2026: Foreign Drones Out. Military Drones In.
DJI dropped four products this month — but only three can reach American buyers. Plus Hyfix raises $15M for domestic chips, AeroVironment's MAYHEM 10, a $270M Air Force solar contract, $29B in counter-drone spending, and Part 107 pass rates hit an all-time low. Every layer of the drone ecosystem moved this week.
What It Actually Costs to Start a Drone Program (2026)
Most organizations confuse buying a drone with building a program — and their budgets reflect it. Here's what a drone program actually costs in 2026, from starter setups to enterprise-scale operations, including the costs almost everyone misses.

