Delivery, surveillance, and security using drones
Week 35: 26 Aug - 31 Aug
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Welcome to this week’s newsletter!
6 interesting stories to share from the past week, so let’s get on with it.
Drone Delivery Services: In the UK, Skyports and Royal Mail are extending their drone delivery service in Orkney until 2026. This is now the UK’s longest-running commercial drone project, having completed over 500 flights covering more than 1,300 kilometers. The service uses upgraded drones and 5G technology to improve mail delivery times and reliability for remote islands, even in challenging weather conditions.
Large-Scale Delivery Trials: In the USA, a new drone delivery trial in Dallas-Fort Worth, overseen by the FAA, is testing large-scale drone operations to potentially transform package delivery across the country. Companies like DroneUp, Alphabet’s Wing, and Zipline are working to reduce delivery costs from $30 to under $7, aiming to make drone delivery a more affordable option.
Offshore Logistics: In the Netherlands, FlyingBasket’s heavy-lift drones, operated by SkyLift, have demonstrated their capabilities by transporting 5,460 kilograms of cargo to offshore wind turbines in the North Sea. Over a 10-day mission, these drones delivered 85-kilogram cargo boxes to 94 wind turbines, showcasing how drones can significantly enhance the efficiency of offshore wind farm logistics.
Public Safety and Surveillance: In the USA, the NYPD is using drones to tackle rising crime in Central Park, marking the first deployment of such technology in a major U.S. park. This initiative aims to boost public safety and is part of a broader strategy to improve surveillance, though it also raises privacy concerns. The use of drones in public safety will expand rapidly. The technology has existed for some time now, and regulations are starting to catch-up.
Military and Defense: In Russia, BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles are being upgraded with drones to enhance battlefield reconnaissance and targeting. These drones provide real-time intelligence, helping crews assess threats and improve weapon accuracy. This integration is enhancing the effectiveness of military operations and is likely to have applications in border patrol and security as well.
Prison Security: In Georgia, prisons are grappling with drones used to deliver contraband to inmates, leading to increased violence and crime within the facilities. Officials are calling for legislative action to implement Counter-UAS technology to combat these drone deliveries and improve security in correctional settings.
Other interesting news stories from the past week:
UAV Autopilot System Trialled with Computer Vision in GNSS-Denied Environments
Australian Drone Technology Assists in Combating Canadian Wildfires: Zombie Fires
That’s it for now.
Have a great week ahead!
-Adit