Guangzhou XAircraft Electronic Technology Co. Ltd was founded in 2007 and specializes in the design and manufacture of civilian-use UAVs and flight-control systems. It is based in Guangzhou, Guangdong province and has branches in Beijing and Australia. The company's releases boast a range of applications from aerial photography and cinematography, mapping and surveying to law enforcement and public safety.

In an exclusive interview with Global Sources, co-founder Justin Gong, highlights the company’s latest releases and the role it plays in the developing drones industry. Below are excerpts of the discussion.

Global Sources:What are the primary functions of drones? What is the product line's target market? Do you see new functions and target markets emerging in the near future?

Justin Gong: Most civilian-use drones are primarily used in aerial photography. These devices can also be used in law enforcement, medical rescue, forest fire prevention, geological prospecting and exploration, surveying and arctic expedition.

Currently, we are developing the XMission, a multitasking weather-resistant UAV system with the aforementioned functions. XAircraft is also working with an international logistics company in developing a low-altitude airspace logistics UAV system, which we expect to be huge in the market in coming years.

GS: What are the factors driving and hindering growth in the industry? How does XAircaft deal with industry challenges?

JG: Low costs of electronic components and increasing manufacturing pool are driving growth in the industry. Technical bottleneck, the legal system and low mass consciousness about drones, meanwhile, are the main hindrances.

Our close cooperation with research institutions worldwide in developing drone-related technology has helped XAircraftin dealing with challenges. We also plan to assist the China government in creating rules and regulations for the industry. We are likewise working with insurance companies in case accidents happen.

GS: What is the market position of XAircraft? Discuss your market share.

JG: XAircraft is among the world's leading UAV solutions provider. We focus on commercial-use UAVs. The company turns out 20, 40 and 70 percent of all civilian- and commercial-use, and logistical UAVs in the market, respectively.

GS: What are the company’s main products and target markets?

JG: XAircraft has two major flight control systems, namely the Super X and the MiniX. We also have the X650 model, which is a multirotor UAV. Our newest model,X Mission, is a multifunction weather-resistant UAV. Our products are mostly utilized for commercial applications and scientific research. Some branches of the government also use our designs.