Shenzhen Commits $1.7B to Build Massive Drone Infrastructure Network

China‘s tech powerhouse Shenzhen is making a bold move into the future of Urban Air Mobility, pledging $1.7 billion to develop infrastructure for low-altitude flight operations through 2026, according to a report from the South China Morning Post.

Ambitious Infrastructure Plans

The city’s planning includes construction of more than 1,200 take-off and landing platforms by 2026. They’re not wasting time either – 249 facilities are already built, and they’re aiming to add 147 more before 2024 ends. The plan calls for another 658 facilities to be completed in 2025.

Tech Infrastructure to Support Urban Air Mobility

What’s really catching my attention is their commitment to advanced connectivity. Shenzhen’s planning to install over 8,000 new 5G-Advanced base stations to provide comprehensive wireless coverage for operations below 600 meters. They’re also launching something pretty innovative – the Smart Integrated Lower Airspace System, which they’re calling the “brain for lower airspace.”

Long-term Vision

This isn’t just a short-term project. The city’s Development and Reform Commission has announced plans to invest an additional $2.8 billion between 2026 and 2030, showing their long-term commitment to developing urban air mobility infrastructure.

DroneXL’s Take

Looking at the bigger picture, Shenzhen’s massive investment in eVTOL and drone infrastructure represents a significant step forward for urban air mobility. This comprehensive approach to building out both physical and digital infrastructure could serve as a model for other cities looking to embrace aerial logistics and transportation. The integration of advanced 5G networks with dedicated take-off and landing facilities shows they’re thinking about the complete ecosystem needed to support future drone operations.

What do you think about Shenzhen’s ambitious plans for urban air mobility? Share your thoughts in the comments below.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​