Yes, drones can be controlled remotely. They are typically equipped with a transmitter-receiver system that allows pilots to send commands from a handheld controller to the drone. The transmitter, or remote controller, is held by the pilot and sends signals wirelessly to the drone, while the drone's receiver receives these signals and relays them to the flight controller onboard the drone.

Through this remote control system, pilots can maneuver the drone, adjust its altitude, change its direction, and activate various features such as taking photos or videos. Some drones also have the capability to be controlled remotely via mobile devices using dedicated apps or software.

Additionally, advancements in technology have enabled drones to be controlled over longer distances using radio frequency (RF) links, Wi-Fi, or cellular connectivity, allowing for extended range and more complex operations such as beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flights.