PurposeAims to summarise the programme of UV Europe, a conference on unmanned vehicles that took place in Paris in June 2005.Design/methodology/approachSelects key conference presentations and summarises their contents, indicating the main themes.FindingsFinds very strong international activity in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Most progress has been made in the military sector so far. Concern about air space safety is holding back the industry.Originality/valuePresents the topics relating to UAVs that concern the market today, and summarises the main areas of research and development.