Technical Review on Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Technologies

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, have transitioned from specialized military assets to commonly found tools across agriculture, logistics, surveillance, and disaster management. As UAV technology advances rapidly, establishing a clear framework for understanding their diverse capabilities becomes essential. This paper presents a comprehensive literature review aimed at synthesizing foundational UAV concepts and establishing a standardized classification. Authors examine the core technical characteristics, operational principles, and historical evolution that define modern drone systems. Furthermore, this study categorizes UAVs based on operational parameters, including aerodynamic design (fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and hybrid systems), weight, range, altitude, and autonomy levels. By consolidating fragmented data from contemporary research, this paper provides a streamlined reference model for classification. Ultimately, this review bridges the gap between basic UAV mechanics and complex operational frameworks, offering researchers and industry professionals a foundational guide to navigate the current drone landscape and identify future technological advancements.