Our History and Milestones (我们的历史和里程碑)

hISTORY

Our History and Milestones

Tracing the Evolution of UAV Innovation Worldwide

 
 
 

Founding in 2017 (成立于2017年)

The World UAV Federation (WUAVF) was officially established in June 2017, marking a significant milestone in the history of the global unmanned aerial vehicle industry

. The brainchild of its visionary Chairman and Founder, Mr. Yang Jincai, the WUAVF was created with the ambitious goal of uniting the global UAV community and promoting the development of the industry on an international scale

The official unveiling ceremony for the federation was held on October 31, 2017, in Shenzhen, China, a city that has become a global hub for drone technology and innovation

The establishment of the WUAVF was a response to the rapid growth of the UAV industry and the need for a unified global organization that could address the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. From its inception, the WUAVF has been committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where all stakeholders in the UAV ecosystem can come together to share knowledge, drive innovation, and shape the future of the industry.

The early years of the WUAVF were characterized by a period of rapid growth and expansion. The federation quickly established a strong presence in the Asia-Pacific region, with the formation of several key national chapters, including those in Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines 

The WUAVF also began to organize a series of high-profile international events, most notably the annual Drone World Congress, which has become a premier platform for showcasing the latest advancements in UAV technology and fostering global collaboration

 

As the UAV industry continues to expand and mature, the Drone World Congress will undoubtedly remain a key event on the global calendar, driving innovation and fostering collaboration in this exciting and rapidly evolving field.

Growth of the Drone World Congress

The Drone World Congress, the flagship event of the World UAV Federation (WUAVF), has experienced remarkable growth since its inception, establishing itself as one of the most important and influential gatherings in the global UAV industry. The first Drone World Congress was held in 2017, and it has been held annually in Shenzhen, China, ever since

The event has grown in scale and scope with each passing year, attracting an ever-increasing number of participants from around the world. The 9th Drone World Congress in 2025, for example, drew over 10,000 industry experts, scholars, and entrepreneurs from more than 100 countries 

The congress has become a premier platform for showcasing the latest advancements in UAV technology, with hundreds of companies displaying thousands of cutting-edge products and solutions. The event also features a comprehensive program of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and technical workshops, covering a wide range of topics, from the latest trends in AI and autonomous systems to the development of the low-altitude economy

The growth of the Drone World Congress is a testament to the WUAVF’s ability to create a vibrant and dynamic platform for the global UAV community. The event has become a must-attend for anyone involved in the drone industry, providing unparalleled opportunities for networking, learning, and business development. The congress has also played a crucial role in promoting the development of the UAV industry in China and beyond, helping to position Shenzhen as a global hub for drone innovation. The success of the Drone World Congress is a clear indication of the WUAVF’s leadership and influence in the industry, and the event is poised to continue its growth and evolution in the years to come. 

Expansion of International Chapters

A key indicator of the World UAV Federation’s (WUAVF) growing global influence is the rapid expansion of its international chapters. Since its founding in 2017, the WUAVF has successfully established a network of 39 chapters in countries around the world, creating a truly global community of UAV professionals and enthusiasts

This expansion has been a strategic priority for the federation, as it recognizes the importance of having a strong local presence in key markets to effectively promote its mission and serve its members. The WUAVF’s international chapters are not just satellite offices; they are active and autonomous organizations that play a vital role in the federation’s global network. Each chapter is led by a team of dedicated local professionals who have a deep understanding of the local market and regulatory landscape. The chapters are responsible for organizing local events, training programs, and advocacy initiatives, all of which contribute to the growth and professionalization of the UAV industry at the national level.

The expansion of the WUAVF’s international chapters has been a carefully planned and executed process. The federation has a rigorous process for establishing new chapters, which involves a thorough assessment of the local market and the identification of suitable local partners. The WUAVF provides its chapters with a high level of support, including access to its global network, training and certification programs, and marketing and promotional materials. This support ensures that the chapters are well-equipped to succeed in their local markets and to effectively represent the WUAVF’s brand and values. The expansion of the WUAVF’s international chapters is a clear indication of the federation’s commitment to building a truly global UAV community and to advancing the development of the industry on a worldwide scale.