Why I'd buy DroneShield shares in May

Counter-drone systems could become a more normal part of defence, infrastructure, and security spending over time.

ASX growth shares can be volatile, but I think some are still worth considering when they are exposed to powerful long-term trends.

One share that stands out to me is DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO).

a woman holds her hands up in delight as she sits in front of her lap

Image source: Getty Images

A counter-drone specialist

DroneShield is not a traditional defence company.

It does not build ships, fighter jets, or tanks. It develops counter-drone and electronic warfare technology, helping customers detect, track, and respond to drone threats.

I think that makes it one of the more interesting ASX growth shares today.

Drones are changing modern conflict and security planning. They are relatively cheap, increasingly capable, and can be used in ways that create serious challenges for defence forces, airports, prisons, public events, and critical infrastructure.

That is where DroneShield's opportunity comes from.

A market with a long runway

What I like about DroneShield is that counter-drone technology could become far more mainstream over the next decade.

This is no longer a niche issue limited to one battlefield. Governments, military customers, and security organisations are having to rethink how they protect people, assets, and infrastructure from unmanned systems.

In my view, that gives DroneShield a large and expanding addressable market.

The company has already shown it can win attention in a fast-growing category. The next step is execution. It needs to keep converting demand into contracts, scaling production, maintaining technology leadership, and deepening customer relationships.

If it can do that, I think the business could be much larger in five or 10 years.

It can be volatile

I would not describe DroneShield as a quiet blue-chip investment.

The share price can move sharply, contract timing can be uneven, competition could increase, and the market may punish the stock if growth does not meet expectations.

That is why I would treat it as a higher-risk growth share rather than a core portfolio holding.

Even so, I think it remains worth considering.

The appeal is the combination of a powerful defence trend, specialist technology, and the possibility of strong long-term revenue growth if customer adoption keeps building.

I would not rely on DroneShield for dividends or stability. But I would be willing to own it for growth.

If counter-drone technology becomes a standard part of military and security spending, I think DroneShield could be well placed to benefit.

Foolish takeaway

DroneShield shares will not suit every investor.

The company still needs to prove that it can turn a strong thematic position into durable earnings growth.

But I think the long-term opportunity is compelling. Drones are changing the security landscape, and the need for counter-drone systems could keep rising for many years.

For investors comfortable with higher risk, I would be happy to consider buying DroneShield shares today.

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in DroneShield. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended DroneShield. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Growth Shares

Coins in ascending order from left to right, with a piggy bank and clock on the sides.
Growth Shares

2 top ASX shares to buy and hold for the next decade

These two investments have incredible long-term outlooks.

Read more »

Rocket going up above mountains, symbolising a record high.
Growth Shares

2 ASX shares tipped to grow 100% or more in the next 12 months

These two stocks could deliver massive returns.

Read more »

Smiling woman pointing at rising graph.
Growth Shares

2 strong Australian stocks to buy now with $9,000

These stocks look like top buys to me right now.

Read more »

Wooden house and golden coins on balancing scale.
Growth Shares

Is the REA Group share price a strong contrarian buy?

Is this a good time to invest in the property portal business?

Read more »

Ascending piles of coins and plants in three jars, with a hand putting a coin in the first jar.
Growth Shares

A rare buying opportunity in 1 of Australia's top shares?

This stock is an ASX leader and it looks like one of Australia’s top shares.

Read more »

Two smiling colleagues looking at a tablet in a data centre.
Growth Shares

Will Goodman shares reach $30 in 2027?

I look at the earnings forecasts to see how realistic a move back to this level could be.

Read more »

Two brokers analysing the share price with the woman pointing at the screen and man talking on a phone.
Growth Shares

2 ASX shares highly recommended to buy: Experts

These businesses could be undervalued and deliver good returns.

Read more »

Woman pointing to a hologram of a world map with finance graphs and related themes.
Growth Shares

Down over 50%: 2 ASX shares to buy for global growth

Both companies are building global momentum. Patient investors should watch.

Read more »