The article presents an analysis of modern trends in the development of modular unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), aimed at improving operational efficiency, reducing operating costs, and extending the service life of devices. Three key areas that define the innovative potential of drones are considered: the use of bionic design, additive manufacturing, and topological optimization methods. It is shown that bionic principles improve the aerodynamic characteristics and maneuverability of drones, while 3D printing provides design flexibility and accelerates the prototyping process. The application of topological optimization makes it possible to significantly reduce the weight of structures without losing strength, which leads to increased flight time and energy efficiency.

Special attention is paid to the advantages of modular architecture. This approach enables the prompt replacement or modernization of individual components without the complete disassembly of the device, which aligns with the concepts of sustainable development and circular economy. Modularity not only reduces maintenance costs but also helps to decrease electronic waste by extending the lifecycle of drones. In addition, the standardization of interfaces and compatibility of modules simplify the integration of new technologies, which is especially important in the context of rapid progress in sensor systems, battery technologies, and artificial intelligence.

The practical significance of the work lies in the fact that modular drones are widely used in various fields—from agricultural land monitoring and environmental control to industrial diagnostics, logistics, and search for victims in emergency situations. The ability to quickly adapt the drone’s configuration to specific tasks increases its operational efficiency and makes such systems more versatile and economically viable.

Thus, modular drone designs form a new strategy in UAV development, focused on compatibility, adaptability, and long-term reliability of systems. The results of the analysis highlight the promising prospects for further research in the integration of bionic design, additive technologies, and topological optimization, which will make it possible to create lightweight, energy-efficient, and environmentally sustainable unmanned systems.

KEREYEV A.K.

PhD, associate professor, department of computer science and information technologies, К.Zhubanov Aktobe Regional University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan.

Е-mail: akereyev@zhubanov.edu.kz, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8283-5807

SARTABANOVA ZH.E.

PhD, senior lecture, К.Zhubanov Aktobe Regional University, Heriot Watt University, Aktobe Campus, Aktobe, Kazakhstan.

E-mail: zhanar.sartabanova@zhubanov.edu.kz, https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4942-5117

RYSDAULETOVA A.A.

Master, lecturer, К.Zhubanov Aktobe Regional University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan.

E-mail: 30.03.94.a@mail.ru, https://orcid.org/0009-0006-2335-8648

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unmanned aerial vehicles, modular design, drones, topology optimization, additive manufacturing, energy efficiency