Technological Development and Application of Meteorological Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: A review

To address the pressing need for high-precision and real-time meteorological monitoring, meteorological unmanned aerial vehicle (MUAV) technology has demonstrated significant advantages. However, the existing literature often examines specific technical aspects of MUAVs in isolation, lacking a systematic integration of the entire platform–payload–communication–protection technology chain. There is also insufficient analysis of the cross-disciplinary challenges MUAVs face in extreme environments and complex smart city scenarios. To bridge this research gap, this article presents a systematic review aiming to construct an analytical framework for the complete MUAV technological system, thereby guiding the promotion and synergistic application of related technologies. This review comprehensively examines the characteristics and applications of fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and tethered platforms; outlines the technological progress and integration strategies from traditional meteorological sensors to quantum sensors; analyzes data transmission and resilient communication technologies adapted to complex scenarios; and summarizes key advancements in wind resistance, deicing, and electromagnetic protection. The findings demonstrate that through the ongoing integration of technologies such as multi-UAV collaboration, lightweight sensing, and intelligent networking, MUAVs—leveraging their high resolution, 3D mobility, and strong environmental adaptability—are progressively evolving into a crucial technological platform supporting future smart cities and global refined meteorological monitoring systems.