Use of unmanned aerial vehicles in the underground method of field development

The article discusses the possibilities and limitations of using unmanned aerial vehicles in the underground development of mineral deposits. The article analyzes the key functions of underground drones, as well as the requirements for their design and technology to work in complex underground conditions. The main attention is paid to the tasks that drones solve in underground mine workings, including monitoring of the condition of supports, mapping and 3D-modeling, environmental and mining monitoring, etc. Technical and operational challenges such as radio signal limitations, exposure to high humidity and extreme temperatures that can reduce the effectiveness of drone use are highlighted. Conclusions are drawn on the importance of underground drones in improving the safety and efficiency of mining operations, and recommendations are made for their further development within the framework of digitalization and automation of underground operations. The results of the study can be used by the scientific community as an information source.