Smart Farm 2026: What Is the Future of Precision Agriculture in the Czech Republic?
October 5, 2026 / 2:46 PM
Artificial intelligence-driven interventions, variable-rate applications, and field robots are becoming increasingly common in Czech agricultural practice. However, the transition to fully autonomous “smart” farming is still hindered by unresolved legislation, high acquisition costs, and a shortage of qualified personnel. These were the key conclusions reached by experts during a panel discussion in Brno.
The discussion on precision agriculture featured Patrik Vítek (CEO of Leading Farmers), Associate Professor Milan Kroulík (Faculty of Engineering, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague), and Dr. Jiří Souček (National Centre for Agricultural and Food Research). The panel was moderated by Jiří Mašek from the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague.
From Precision Agriculture to Smart Farming Through Artificial Intelligence
According to the panelists, agriculture is evolving from traditional precision farming toward a comprehensive concept of smart farming.
Sensors and AI in Real Time
A key element of this transformation is the integration of artificial intelligence, sensor technologies, and machine learning. These technologies enable weed detection, highly targeted application of crop protection products, and predictive models for fertilization.
Data Processing Directly in Machines
A major current trend is the online evaluation of Big Data directly during field operations, rather than processing information afterwards on a computer.
Main Obstacles to Further Development: Legislation, Cost, and Lack of Trust
Although agricultural technologies have advanced significantly, several major barriers continue to limit their widespread adoption.
Outdated Legislation
The legal framework lags considerably behind technological progress. Regulations for the autonomous operation of robots without supervision in fields, as well as for their movement on public roads, are still lacking.
High Costs and Economic Uncertainty
Advanced technologies are often unique and expensive. At the same time, farmers face rising input costs, including fuel and fertilizers, as well as ongoing market uncertainty.
Limited Demonstrations in Real Conditions
Many farmers do not have sufficient opportunities to see new technologies in real-world operation, which contributes to skepticism and reluctance to adopt innovations.
Changing Labor Market: The “Traditional Tractor Driver” Is No Longer Enough
The dramatic decline in available agricultural labor is pushing farms toward automation. In some sectors, especially livestock production, the deployment of robots has become essential for business survival.
At the same time, workforce requirements are changing fundamentally.
Demand for Versatile Specialists
New positions require a combination of skills ranging from agronomy and soil science to programming, GIS applications, and computer technologies. Today, a single employee is often expected to perform roles that were previously covered by several different professions.
A New Generation and the Role of Education
Secondary schools and universities, including the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, are adapting their study programs to focus on precision and smart farming. Younger generations are also significantly more open to adopting new technologies.
Cybersecurity as a New Priority
Agriculture is a crucial part of a country's critical infrastructure and food security system. As machinery becomes increasingly interconnected through telematics, the risk of cyberattacks is also growing.
A disruption of agricultural equipment during critical periods of the farming season could have severe consequences for crop production and food supply chains.
When Will Autonomous Robots Take Over the Fields?
Regarding fully autonomous machines operating without human presence, the panelists agreed on a timeframe of within the next five years to around 2032.
While autonomous operation on closed private land is already technically feasible today, broader nationwide deployment will require legislative changes and the gradual evolution of machinery toward collaborative robotic systems.
