71,207 drones broke world record in Texas using Chinese expertise and intriguing 'drone-in-a-box' concept — Shenzhen-based Damoda teamed with Sky Elements to bring 10000-strong dragon to life

On September 28, 2026, Sky Elements and Damoda broke two Guinness World Records in rural Texas by launching a staggering 71,207 drones over a one-week period. The massive operation utilized a unique "drone-in-a-box" concept, which allowed the teams to launch 10,183 drones in a formation to create a giant blue dragon – the largest mythical creature depicted by multirotors. This performance shattered the previous record of 2,247 drones set just last year.

Damoda, a Shenzhen-based company, collaborated with American drone operator Sky Elements to bring the project to life. Damoda supplied specialized hardware and dispatched engineers from its Shenzhen base to work alongside Sky Elements' American operators throughout the three-night event. Their system differed from traditional drone launch setups, as the drones arrived in trays that stored and charged the aircraft.

This innovative approach simplified transport and warehousing, with every drone departing from one dedicated tray and returning there after landing.

The Texas crews faced the formidable task of managing the fleet of over 10,000 drones, which flew several times each day. Despite a thunderstorm interrupting the opening show on September 27, the remaining performances continued and concluded on September 30. Adjudicator Michael Empric praised the teams for their successful execution, despite the challenging weather conditions and the sheer scale of the operation.

Sky Elements has previously held other world records, including a gingerbread village made from 4,981 drones and a fictional figure built from 4,979 units. The company's other entries showcase its expertise in drone-based artistic displays, such as a cowboy hat made from 519 drones and a 30-minute animation rendered via unmanned aircraft.

While the available account lacks data on the drone system's reliability during storms and daily launches, the Texas crews managed to secure their remarkable records through five successful shows on the final night.