Abstract: Various embodiments of a docking station configured for semi-autonomous or fully autonomous management of drones. In various embodiments, the station can identify the exact location and angle of a drone on a landing pad, and modify the location and angle in order for a robot to retrieve a used battery from the drone and also insert a fully charged replacement battery. The station may also determine the charge status of a drone's battery, the exact type of battery used by a particular drone, and select for replacement into the drone the specific battery needed. There are various embodiments of a system with such a docking station, command & control software, a database, and a network control center. Various embodiments are of methods to identify the need to replace a battery, identify the type of battery required, and effect replacement in an automated manner.