Using RTK navigation in precision farming

Modern precision farming is impossible to imagine without RTK navigation. This technology has become an integral part of agribusiness, allowing for the most efficient use of resources and increasing production profitability. Let's look at specific examples of application and real results of implementing RTK systems in agriculture.

Field Work Automation

One of the most common applications of RTK navigation is agricultural machinery autopiloting. The system allows the tractor to move along a predetermined trajectory with an accuracy of up to 2.5 cm. This is particularly important when performing the following operations:

• Seeding: avoiding gaps and overlaps, ensuring optimal crop density
• Fertiliser application: uniform distribution of substances without repeated treatment of areas
• Spraying: precise adherence to tramlines, preventing crop damage

According to Agro-Soyuz farm (Dnipropetrovsk region), the implementation of RTK navigation has reduced fuel consumption by 12% and increased machinery productivity by 20% due to the ability to work at night and in poor visibility conditions.

Precise Seeding and Seed Material Savings

Practice shows that using RTK navigation in seeding operations provides significant economic benefits. For example, Svitanok farm (Kyiv region) reports savings of:

• Seed material: 5-7%
• Fertilisers: 8-10%
• Plant protection products: up to 15%

The system allows for precise row spacing and ensures perfectly straight rows, which is particularly important when growing row crops.

Field Mapping and Data Analysis

RTK navigation has become the foundation for creating precise field maps, which are used for:

• Crop rotation planning
• Calculating fertiliser application rates
• Yield analysis
• Identifying problem areas

Western Bug farm implemented an RTK navigation-based mapping system, which enabled the creation of detailed terrain and soil moisture maps. Based on this data, the irrigation system was optimised, leading to 25% water savings.

Strip-till Technology

RTK navigation has made possible the widespread implementation of strip-till technology. The system ensures precise placement in pre-processed strips during seeding, which is particularly important for:

• Spring seeding after autumn tillage
• Fertiliser application in future row zones
• Inter-row cultivation

Agroecology farm reports a 40% reduction in soil cultivation costs whilst maintaining yield levels after implementing Strip-till with RTK navigation.

Economic Effect

Investments in RTK navigation pay off within 1-2 seasons through:

• Reduced fuel costs
• Savings on seed material and agrochemicals
• Increased machinery productivity
• Ability to work at night and in poor visibility conditions

The experience of Ukrainian farms shows that total resource savings can reach 15-20% compared to traditional technologies.

Development Prospects

Current trends indicate further integration of RTK navigation with other precision farming systems:

• Unmanned aerial vehicles
• Variable-rate fertiliser application systems
• Crop condition sensors
• Weather stations

This will enable the creation of fully automated agricultural production management systems operating on precision farming principles.