5th Congress Book

18 – Dual-use of drones in mountainous environments

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Sebastian Maygruendter

Sebastian Mayrgündter works at NOI Techpark in Bolzano/Bozen as a specialist for drones in extreme environments. As an economist, he took up the position to improve the interaction of government interventions for the development of this new industry. Since 2015, he has contributed to the development of industrial applications of drones in mountain areas for filming and monitoring of natural hazards, and in agriculture by supporting and accompanying many innovation projects. He pays particular attention to the use of drones in mountain rescue. He has actively supported and scientifically accompanied the development of drone teams in mountain rescue in Belluno, South Tyrol, Tyrol and Bavaria.

Email: s.mayrguendter@noi.bz.it

Summary:

Over the past few years, research teams, startups and companies at NOI Techpark have shown how to give ideas wings – and those who have taken business ideas or research and development projects into the air with unmanned aerial systems (UAS) – also known as drones – have really made us fly. We have accompanied numerous projects on these topics: moderating, and searching for funding and partnerships, always impressed each time by the ingenuity and passion of all involved.

This report illustrates the experience of mountain rescue in adopting drones for rescue, demonstrating the importance of creating a network of stakeholders with complementary skills. Specifically, we would like to see test fields – including former military infrastructures – for continuous testing to verify the applicability of drones in extreme environments. Finally, we emphasize the need to increase investment in this sector in order to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and improve defence capabilities. Cooperation between military users, research and industry plays a crucial role in this.

About us

NOI Techpark – Innovation that people need

NOI stands for NATURE OF INNOVATION. Our approach is inspired by nature. So far, nature is the start-up that has produced the most unicorns – and we have taken note. Our philosophy is centred on the Nature of Innovation – keeping what works, discarding what does not, and creating solutions that improve people’s lives. For us, innovation means answering questions and designing solutions with the potential for success. In one respect, we are even ahead of nature. While nature has to rely on trial and error, we rely on market analyses, timing and process methods, and we build on the know-how of companies, start-ups and science. This makes innovation feasible and sustainable, even for small companies.

Situated on the border with Austria and Switzerland, South Tyrol is Italy’s northernmost region. It is a link between north and south, a holiday destination, and an up-and-coming business and research location with a history rich in changes. NOI is South Tyrol’s growing innovation district, which links economy and science to boost R&D investment, business innovation and research impact. As a next generation European science and technology park, we focus on sustainability, open innovation, a European innovation strategy and the needs of the territory.

Hard Facts

 

1,100 People

       3   Research Institutes

     15  Languages

     62  Companies

     12  Hectare Campus

     25  Start-ups

       3   University Facilities

     49  Research Laboratories

 

At NOI we offer the space, time and expertise to accompany promising ideas on their way to innovative products:

  • LABS: 46 scientific and 3 prototype laboratories: we connect you with the right laboratory.
  • TECH TRANSFER: Knowledge transfer and technological know-how: we advise, support and network within our technology fields.
  • START-UP INCUBATOR: Coaching, workshops, access to mentors and investors, accelerator programmes and more: we help start-ups grow.
  • INNOVATION MANAGEMENT: Innovation between user, technology and the economy: we support companies during the innovation process.
  • AREA & SPACES: We offer spaces for events, offices, and laboratories.
  • EU-OPPORTUNITIES: As an official partner of the EEN network, we are the gateway to Europe for innovative companies.
  • OPEN DATA HUB: Access to South Tyrol’s largest data pool on tourism, mobility and more.
  • PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT: Customized initiatives and events for families, children, students and interested adults.

Tech Transfer Automotive | Automation

Competence Centre for Drones in Extreme Environments

 

The Competence Centre for Drones in Extreme Environments at NOI Techpark is a dedicated facility focused on the development and application of drone technology in challenging and extreme environments. Located in South Tyrol, the centre aims to support the region’s transition to a green and digital economy by leveraging drones for various purposes. It is part of the ecosystem Automotive | Automation.

The ecosystem Automotive | Automation in the broader sense contains more than 800 producing companies and service providers. These employ over 16,000 people, and are among the region’s most important exporters, contributing to more than half of the regional investments in research and development.

Additive manufacturing, electrification, mechatronics, optical measurement technology and sensors – these are the key technologies receiving special attention. They are developed and brought to application in a network of innovative start-ups, specialized service providers, internationally established enterprises, and investors. For their support, we provide the following services:

  • We advise and support them in R&D projects.
  • We network them with companies and research partners.
  • We organise events where we pass on sound technological know-how.

Drones have the potential to address various challenges in South Tyrol, such as providing aerial imaging for industries, reducing risks in steep vineyards, monitoring critical infrastructure, and delivering goods to remote areas. However, the use of drones in complex terrain such as mountains poses unique challenges. The advancement of artificial intelligence is expected to open new possibilities for drone applications in the future, but safety concerns, infrastructure requirements, data analytics, and the need for a specialized ecosystem remain significant considerations.

To foster innovation and address extreme environmental issues, the Competence Centre collaborates with pilot teams from mountain rescue organizations in Belluno, South Tyrol, Tyrol, and Bavaria. Scientists and other collaborators also participate in these initiatives to co-develop and test innovative practices and technologies. This approach, implemented within the START LIVING LAB, aims to bring together diverse expertise and resources to tackle the specific challenges posed by extreme environments.

Overall, the Competence Centre for Drones in Extreme Environments at NOI Techpark plays a crucial role in promoting the application of drone technology in challenging settings, fostering collaboration between stakeholders, and driving innovation in South Tyrol’s green and digital economy.

The network of NOI Techpark

Pioneering Mountain Applications for UAS in Extreme Environments

In recent years, drones have emerged as a transformative technology with vast potential across various industries. UAS are a sustainable, low-cost and less man-intensive alternative to helicopters for logistics and tactical support of operations in extreme environments. On the military side drones have been used for the last 30 years. European military drone capabilities remain less mature than in other parts of the world, but the potential contribution of military use to EU strategic autonomy is recognized. One of the areas where drones are expected to play a crucial role in the future is in extreme environments, particularly in mountainous regions. The development of an ecosystem of drones tailored for these challenging terrains is gaining momentum, driven by user-centred organization and addressing the dual-use challenge of civil applications and safety.

  1. Drones: A Future Key Technology in Mountain Areas

Drones offer unique capabilities which make them invaluable tools for various applications in mountainous regions. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can overcome geographical barriers, access remote and hazardous areas, and provide valuable data for a wide range of purposes. They can be equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and other payloads to capture high-resolution imagery, collect environmental data, and assist in search and rescue operations. The potential applications in mountain areas are diverse, including environmental monitoring, infrastructure inspection, wildlife management, and emergency response.

  1. User-Centred Development:

To ensure the effectiveness and usability of drones in extreme environments, the development of this ecosystem at NOI Techpark is organized in a user-centred manner. This approach involves close collaboration with stakeholders such as mountaineers, mountain rescue teams, environmental researchers, and local communities. By engaging with end-users throughout the development process, the ecosystem can better understand their specific needs, challenges, and requirements. This user feedback helps shape the design, functionalities, and capabilities of the drones, ensuring that they are tailored to address the unique demands of operating in mountainous terrain.

  1. Dual-Use Challenges:

One of the significant challenges in developing an ecosystem of drones for extreme environments is the dual-use aspect. While the primary focus may be on civil applications such as environmental monitoring or infrastructure inspection, safety is paramount. Drones should be designed to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with regulations, particularly in areas prone to avalanches, extreme weather conditions or other hazardous situations. This requires the development of technological solutions that prioritize both the effectiveness of the technology for civil use, and its ability to enhance safety in extreme environments.

 

The emergence of an ecosystem of drones for extreme environments, particularly in mountain areas, holds immense potential. By embracing a user-centred development approach and addressing the challenges of dual-use applications, these drones can revolutionize operations in remote and hazardous terrain. The integration of advanced sensors, data analysis techniques and safety features will enable the drones to provide valuable insights, enhance situational awareness, and contribute to the well-being of both the environment and the people operating in these extreme locations. As the technology continues to evolve, the ecosystem of drones for extreme environments will undoubtedly unlock new possibilities and improve our ability to understand and address the unique challenges posed by mountainous regions.

The following are the selected partners with whom an ecosystem for the dual use of drones in extreme conditions is being established at the NOI Techpark:

IDV

Military vehicles

IDV, a company of Iveco Group, is dedicated to delivering innovative automotive and protection solutions to meet the needs of military customers worldwide. The company, whose headquarters is in Bolzano (Italy), manufactures specialist logistic, protected, and armoured vehicles to meet a broad spectrum of defence applications.

FlyingBasket

Cargo drones

This start-up was the first commercial cargo drone available in Europe. FlyingBasket is a drone manufacturer specializing in heavy-payload cargo drones. Over the last seven years of activity, from prototyping to production, the matured expertise has converged into the FB3 cargo drone. With 8 rotors and a 100kg payload capability, it is used to lift and transport goods, materials, and equipment in different applications and environments. Since May 2023, Leonardo S.p.A. has become an important shareholder, enabling FlyingBasket’s further growth.

MAVTech

Transport of Airborne Sensors such as defibrillators, RGB, IR and Lifeseeker

MAVTech has a primary interest in the development of innovative aeronautical products and services, for aerial surveys and tactical operation support, transferring new aerospace technologies from research to the industrial domain. The Q4X Drone is designed to provide high performance in harsh environments. Powerful engines and light rain resistance ensure high-altitude flights. The Q4X can be equipped with high resolution RGB and thermal cameras for search and rescue purposes, tactical surveys and aerial monitoring.

START mountain rescue

Inter-regional cooperation

As part of the START project – funded by the European Union – mountain rescue organizations began a collaboration on technology development in 2018. The focus is the development of airborne support and the establishment of drone teams in the rescue chain. Today, there are about 42 teams in the region that use drones for the safety of people on the mountain. On the one hand, this collaboration focuses on automation in flight planning and risk assessment, as well as the innovative application of sensor systems; on the other, the transport of material over the ‘last mile’ in rough terrain is being tested.

EURAC research TerraXCube

Testing of people and machines in extreme environments

The Extreme Climate Simulator can simulate the most extreme climate conditions on earth. In one large (12x6x5m) and four smaller climate chambers it is possible to investigate how people and ecological processes react to environmental stress, and how extreme climate conditions affect the performance of materials and technical products. Drones can fly in an artificially reproduced scenario of multiple climatic stress factors: wind, heat, rain, snow, high altitude, etc.

UAVDACH

Working group Public Safety and Defence

UAVDACH e.V. is the most experienced association for civil and commercial aviation of unmanned aircraft systems in Europe. Since 2000, UAVDACH has represented the interests of its more than 240 members from research, manufacturing and application in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands.

Drones for mountain rescue

In November 2023, the kickoff event of the Public Security & Defence Working Group took place, focusing on dual-use systems and purely military systems.

Lessons learned from UAS in mountain rescue 2016-2022

Since 2016, NOI Techpark has been involved in many projects where drones are used in alpine risk management. Initially – as in the EVADAR (Emergenze gestite con Velivoli a pilotaggio remoto in Aree di Difficile Accesso e a Rischio) project funded by ARGEALP (2015-2017) – it was about exploring the performance of drones in comparison with ground-based and satellite technologies. However, we then realized that the weak point in the implementation of the technology is the human aspect. We therefore we switched to a more user-centric approach (DronEX, EFRE1132, 2017-2020) and focused on possible applications of the technology (InnoAlp Tec, EFRE 1060, 2016-2019); in this 2nd phase we focused on development applications such as filming, agriculture, monitoring, transport and rescue, and on the development of an international ecosystem for drone technologies. Finally, the project START (Interreg V IT-AT, 2018-2021) offered the opportunity to enable mountain rescuers to cooperate with research and companies in the innovation process. We then realized that working with users in a structured innovation process would be beneficial to our goal: the development of an industry for drones in extreme environments.

  • Step 1: Co-develop

This is a creative step where diverse perspectives are brought together to share information, data, experience, and new ideas about how to improve specific practices or technologies. With the active involvement of specific users, the innovations and accompanying scientific research activities are co-developed and prepared for testing. NOI offers support at this stage with the service R&D consulting, including EU funding opportunities.[1]

  • Step 2: Evaluate

The innovations are evaluated where they will be used: by specific users in the real environment or in the TerraXCube. Along with real-life tests, scientific research helps assess how well the practices or technologies are performing, including their environmental and socio-economic impact. NOI offers support at this stage with specific labs and expertise.

  • Step 3: Test

The innovations are tested in many ways, such as their practical application and effectiveness, based on both scientific research and the hands-on experience of specific users. This data and evaluation ensures that specific users and scientists have useful and scientifically proven solutions that can be readily adopted by others. NOI offers support at this stage with the service Networking & Cooperation, creating synergies for the solutions of the future.[2]

[1] See https://noi.bz.it/en/for-companies/get-r-d-advice

[2] See https://noi.bz.it/en/services/networking-cooperation

Evidence from the pilot teams of the mountain rescue services

Drones in emergency response[1]

As part of the START project, we were able to accompany mountain rescue services in the introduction of drones. We conducted 11 usability tests with 49 scenarios with 288 participants from Austrian and Italian mountain rescue organizations. In this way we were able to investigate the usability and effectiveness of drones in rescue operations, especially in mountainous regions. The tests showed that drones have the potential to reduce operational risks, increase the safety and performance of responders, and improve mission planning and control. The results highlight the benefits of using drones in emergency operations, such as search and rescue missions and emergency equipment delivery, by reducing response times and minimizing risk. However, improvements in drone-to-helicopter communications are needed to further increase the operational capability of drones for emergency missions. Mountain rescue pilots need to be empowered (training, adaptation of the legal framework) to bring help to people in need by transporting rescue equipment and providing tactical support for search and rescue.

[1] Wankmüller, Kunovjanex, Mayrgündter, “Drones in emergency response – evidence from cross-border, multi-disciplinary usability tests”, International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction 65 (2021), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2021.102567

Use cases

SAR operations with telemedical support[1]

Together with the South Tyrolean Mountain and Cave Rescue and EURAC research, we used scientific methods to investigate the use of drones in search and rescue (SAR) missions in difficult terrain. The challenge for mountain rescue is to shorten the search time and the treatment-free interval for patients. The study conducted a randomized controlled trial comparing two methods of searching for and treating a patient: a drone-assisted intervention group and a conventional ground rescue control group.

The results showed that the average time to locate the patient was 14.6 minutes in the drone-assisted intervention group and 20.6 minutes in the control group. The use of drones in SAR missions significantly reduced the search time and treatment-free interval for patients in difficult terrain. The results suggest that drones may enable faster searching and delivery of medical equipment, which could improve outcomes for patients with traumatic injuries.

Alpine Star[2]

During the multidomain exercise ‘Alpine Star’ in Merano-Merano 2000 (IT) in 2022, the Italian Army deployed unmanned systems capable of operating in constantly changing environments and increasing the protection of personnel on a mission from potential threats. FlyingBasket contributed a logistic transport drone designed to support mountain troops in their daily high-altitude logistics challenges in extreme environments and weather conditions. Its main feature is the ability to transport a payload of up to 100 kg over long distances.

[1] Strapazzon, Mayrgündter, van Veelen et al., “Drones reduce the treatment-free interval in search and rescue operations with telemedical support – A randomized controlled trial”, American Journal of Emergency Medicine 66 (2023) 40-44, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajem.2023.01.020

[2] Promotion video of Leonardo. Starting from 1:59 you see a video about FlyingBasket’s cargo drone: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyMOmkxKW8g

Rescue Drone 2030

With the development of the concept ‘Rescue Drone 2030’ we have identified a wide range of potential applications that could significantly enhance UAS operations, including remote location of people, transportation of rescue materials, ‘eye in the sky’ exploration, telediagnosis of patients, and transportation of people. For the use cases that we develop, we pay attention to sustainability as a first step; in particular, we require that the solution can add value in an economic context and that the environmental impact is favourable. Furthermore, safety must be manageable. If this is successful, we support an R&D project of an innovative application for the rescue system. Each application highlights the benefits and the positive impact it can have on rescue missions.

  1. Remote Location of People: Sensor-Based Detection
  • Increased security during rescue in rough and steep terrain.
  • Capable of conducting rescue operations in unfavourable environmental conditions.
  • Enables faster response time with first aid within 5 minutes.
  1. ‘Eye in the Sky’: Exploration of the Area of Operation
  • Enables mapping of the rescue area for better situational awareness.
  • Supports exploration and assessment of dangerous situations, even in adverse weather conditions.
  • Provides real-time monitoring to aid mission coordination and decision-making.
  1. Transportation of Rescue Materials:
  • Companies can initiate initial steps in rescue efforts.
  • Facilitates first aid treatment through the delivery of essential medicines.
  • Allows autonomous delivery of defibrillators in cases where rescue teams experience delays.
  1. Telediagnosis of Patients:
  • Establishes contact between rescuers and individuals in need of assistance, providing reassurance.
  • Enables initial diagnosis for faster treatment, increasing chances of successful outcomes.
  • Can be combined with the transportation of rescue materials for seamless support.
  1. Transportation of People:
  2. Transport of Rescuers:
  • Saves time by quickly transporting rescuers to the scene, enhancing response capabilities.
  • Improves accessibility in challenging terrain, reaching remote locations more efficiently.
  1. Transportation of Patients:
  • Reduces transportation time, ensuring timely medical attention.
  • Facilitates rescue operations even in difficult conditions, improving chances of survival.

The Rescue Drone 2030 offers a multitude of advantages across various applications in rescue operations. From remote location detection and transportation of rescue materials, to serving as an ‘eye in the sky’ for exploration and telediagnosis of patients, as well as efficient transportation of both rescuers and patients, these applications increase the effectiveness and efficiency of rescue missions. By leveraging the capabilities of the Rescue Drone 2030, rescue teams can save lives, mitigate risks, and provide vital support in challenging and critical situations.

Opportunities for mountain rescue

START rescue drones

While rescue drones offer significant benefits in mountain rescue scenarios, there are several challenges that need to be addressed. As part of the study ‘RESCUE DRONES 2030’, we have summarized the challenges and potential benefits of using rescue drones in mountainous regions. The use of drones in alpine terrain can significantly increase the safety of rescuers and shorten the time to reach the patient. According to leading experts in Europe, particular emphasis is placed on tactical support in rescue operations through transport of material and the ability of drones to locate people, especially in adverse weather conditions and difficult terrain.

Legal regulations, including airspace guidelines and collision avoidance systems, pose a major challenge to the widespread use of drones. For example, connectivity in remote areas and transporting people is currently only possible in experimental settings due to legal requirements. Currently, drones are not yet perceived as an integral part of rescue operations, creating tension between traditional rescue methods and the potential of drone technology. Legal frameworks, communication and acceptance among stakeholders, and cost-effectiveness remain key areas that require attention.

For the further development of the rescue drone, the study recommends cooperation with industry, which is only possible through the development of large-scale use cases. In the industrial sector, drones are already finding applications in areas such as agriculture, media production, and logistics. However, their economic viability is still limited in many cases. The cost-benefit factor of drone use is not yet comparable to that of human resources. The interviewed experts suggest that scalability and modular design could help find economically viable applications for drones by 2030.

What are the advantages of military and civil cooperation?

Creating an innovation ecosystem

Collaboration between the military and civil sectors in the development of drone technology offers numerous advantages. In Europe, citizens have shown a positive attitude towards the use of drones for community-oriented purposes, such as medical or emergency transport and connecting remote areas.[1] While military drones have been in use for several decades, the maturity of European military drone capabilities lags behind other regions. However, the potential contribution of military use to EU strategic autonomy is recognized by the European Commission.[2]

Fundamental to this is significant support for and investments in start-ups and new technology-oriented businesses. These factors are driving the creation of an innovation ecosystem. By addressing concerns related to safety, security, noise, and environmental impact, these measures aim to ensure that unmanned systems benefit society at large by providing affordable, integrated, and complementary mobility solutions. Consequently, within the next three to five years, Europe expects to see the emergence of greener and faster mobility solutions for extreme environments.

[1] EASA (2021), Study on the societal acceptance of Urban Air Mobility in Europe

[2] EU Drone Strategy 2.0, COM(2022) 652 final

Dual Use Systems and Multi Domain Operations

User-Centric Approach and EU Drone Strategy 2.0

The Multi-Domain Operations approach within NATO emphasizes the importance of external stakeholders in innovation, technological advancement, and military capability transformation. This approach enables the Alliance to strategically influence events, synchronize efforts with external stakeholders, and present formidable challenges to adversaries.[1]

In 2022, the European Commission published the ‘Drone Strategy 2.0 for a Smart and Sustainable Unmanned Aircraft Ecosystem in Europe’.5 This strategy outlines the necessary actions to deploy a drone ecosystem in the European Union, aligning with the goals of the European Green Deal[2] and the digital transformation of the European Economy and of the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy[3]. At NOI Techpark we focus on drones in extreme environments.

By fostering an innovation ecosystem, addressing dual-use considerations, and aligning with strategic approaches such as Multi-Domain Operations and the European Drone Strategy 2.0, Europe can unlock the potential of drones for both military and civil applications. This collaboration holds promise for enhancing mobility, safety, and sustainability in extreme environments, while supporting broader societal goals. Under a user-centric approach, collaboration between mountain rescuers, mountain warfare teams, academia, and companies can lead to the development of NATO Class I and II drones tailored to their specific needs. The European Defence Fund may provide support under specific conditions to implement Flagship Action 14 of the EU Drone Strategy 2.0. This action aims to establish an EU network of civil-defence drone testing centres, facilitating exchanges between the civilian and defence sectors.

[1] NATO (2023), Multi-Domain Operations in NATO – Explained, https://www.act.nato.int/article/mdo-in-nato-explained/

[2] European Green Deal, COM(2019) 640 final

[3] EU Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy, COM(2020) 789 final

Test fields in South Tyrol and Europe

Possible R&D cooperation

The drone industry in South Tyrol has been experiencing exponential growth in recent years. This growth has highlighted the need for facilities to test new technologies and collaborate with the research community and stakeholders in the region. Test flights and flight demonstrations play a crucial role in the safe exploration and development of new drone prototypes, as they transition from concept to deployment or demonstrate new business scenarios. In 2020, we conducted a survey in which we invited 616 stakeholders from all over Europe to participate.

The study revealed that testing drones both indoors and outdoors is essential for the product development of the industry. This finding is aligned with the Smart Specialization Strategy of South Tyrol (RIS3), which recommends the establishment of testing areas in close proximity to practical applications. The strategy also emphasizes the promotion of intersectoral cooperation, cross-project collaboration, and exchange with other regions, including data exchange.[1]

The European Union recognizes that better availability and geographic distribution of test sites across the EU would be beneficial for the development of unmanned technologies, encompassing both digital infrastructure and vehicle technology. Additionally, given the limited availability of airspace and airfield facilities, maximizing the use of military facilities is crucial to enable the dual-use of defined airspace volumes and to facilitate harmonized testing between civil, military, and commercial operators.[2]

[1] Measure 20, Smart Specialisation Strategy of South Tyrol (2021)

[2] Flagship Action 14, EU Drone Strategy 2.0, COM(2022) 652 final

Living Lab South Tyrol

User centred innovation with mountain rescue

The Living Lab Initiative revolutionizes rescue drone innovation by uniting mountain rescue teams, scientists, and industry leaders to co-develop and test pioneering practices and technologies that tackle technological challenges in extreme environments with drones. This turns the conventional innovation process (specifications – technological innovation – pilot project – standardization – procurement) on its head, as the user participates from the outset. At the start of a research and development project, dedicated interdisciplinary R&D teams identify needs, establish common priorities, and define objectives. Through this collective effort, they design innovative practices or technologies to address these needs. The resulting innovations are then subjected to repeated testing, evaluation, and iterative improvements. With each cycle, the team gains valuable insights into the practices and technologies being developed. By repeating the process, the innovations are continually refined based on feedback from users, collaborators, scientists, and the prioritization of the challenges.

In our inter-regional project with mountain rescue teams from Italy, Austria, and Germany, scientists and teams of FlyingBasket and MAVTech will be developing not only an experimental test site but also a cross-border competence network from 2023 to 2025. The START Living Lab will implement suitable methods and procedures throughout its establishment and operation. Based on stakeholder needs analysis, the following airborne topics have been prioritized:

  • Life Seeker (Manual BVLOS flight for locating mobile phones)
  • Range Extension (Delivery of equipment to an operation site using cargo drones)
  • Drone Swarm (Systematic search with a flight plan)
  • Radio Range Extender
  • Forest Fire Monitoring (Temperature, air quality)
  • Transportation of injured individuals
  • Acoustic sensors for Detect & Avoid
  • Vertiport & Mobile Command Centre

By establishing a cross-border competence network, we aim to enhance the capabilities of mountain rescue teams and contribute to the safety and efficiency of operations in challenging mountainous environments. The experience of mountain rescue teams can be used to further develop unmanned systems for mountain warfare teams.