Komatsu makes 1,000 drone order from DJI

Japan’s construction industry is set to receive 1,000 new drones, as Komatsu, the construction equipment manufacturer, makes the largest order DJI has ever received.

“This represents the largest commercial drone order in history,” the firm claims.

“Each drone is manufactured by DJI and outfitted with specialized Skycatch technology, and is the first time DJI has manufactured a custom drone for a partner.”

The Chinese technology firm will be producing 1,000 custom Matrice 100 drones, all featuring Skycatch imaging technology.

Although the value of the deal has not been announced, the drones are typically $3,200, with the additional $1,000 charge for the GPS module and $1,800 for the Skycatch Precision Package.

“Conducting a site survey using a drone used to take hours,” commented Komatsu’s Executive Office of Smart Construction Division, Chikashi Shike.

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“However, by implementing Explore1, users can carry out surveying quickly and easily.”

“Now it is possible to perform drone surveying every day. Taking off, landing and flight route setting are all automated.”

“Ground Control Points (GCPs) are no longer needed. 3D data is immediately generated and an entire construction site can be visually checked with the 3D map. The Explore1 is a true game changer for the construction site.”

Drones are set to reach 4.6mn units by 2020, claims Gartner, with the market reaching US$100bn by the same year, according to Goldman Sachs.

Whilst the military industry is still set to dominate the world, taking up 70% of the market at $70bn, the consumer market will be worth $17bn.

From the $17bn, the construction industry will account for almost 66% at 11.2bn.