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15 September 2025
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By Chief Charles L. Werner (Ret.-Emeritus)
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS/commonly referred to as drones) began to stir interest among public safety agencies following the implementation of the Federal Aviation Administration&rsquo;s (FAA) Part 107 Rule in 2016. This rule provided the first formal pathway for commercial and governmental drone operations, but the majority of public safety organizations had little knowledge of aviation rules, regulations, or best practices. Most police and fire departments did not maintain aviation programs and had limited experience operating within the National Airspace System (NAS). Agencies also faced uncertainty in selecting and procuring appropriate drone platforms, identifying the right training requirements, and determining how to integrate this new technology into ongoing operations without disrupting established emergency response protocols.  
These challenges revealed a significant gap. Agencies were enthusiastic about the potential of drones but lacked the collective resources to accelerate adoption safely and effectively. Recognizing the need for a unifying resource, the DRONERESPONDERS Public Safety Alliance (DRONERESPONDERS) was established in 2019.  
<h5>Founding and Mission  </h5>
The vision of DRONERESPONDERS was to create a trusted platform where agencies could learn, collect, and share standard operating procedures (SOPs), training methodologies, and operational experiences. Unlike traditional consulting or vendor-driven resources, DRONERESPONDERS was launched as an open, nonprofit alliance with membership and resources offered free of charge. The guiding principle was that no single agency should have to &ldquo;reinvent the wheel&rdquo; in isolation, and that knowledge-sharing would accelerate the safe and ethical adoption of drones across all sectors of public safety. 
<h5>Membership Growth and Global Reach  </h5>
The early response was extraordinary. By the end of its first year, DRONERESPONDERS had 500 members, spanning police, fire, EMS, and emergency management professionals. Word spread quickly through online networks, conferences, and peer recommendations. By 2025, the alliance had grown to more than 12,000 members, representing 92 countries and over 500 international members. This rapid expansion reflects both the universal challenges and the global appetite for collaboration.  Recognizing that virtual resources were not enough, DRONERESPONDERS launched its first National Public Safety UAS Conference in 2021 at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia. The inaugural event drew 250 public safety professionals and 16 exhibitors. Attendance doubled the following year and, by 2025, the conference had become the largest public safety drone conference in the world, hosting 600 attendees and nearly 60 exhibitors. These gatherings have since evolved into must-attend events where public safety agencies, regulators, vendors, NGOs, and academia meet to share progress and shape the future of drone operations.  
<h5>Expanding Outreach</h5>
To ensure public safety remained visible within broader aviation and robotics discussions, DRONERESPONDERS began co-locating events with major industry conferences such as AUVSI XPONENTIAL, the Commercial UAV Expo, and the Energy Drone and Robotics Summit. These collaborations fostered dialogue between public safety professionals and the private sector, ensuring innovations in hardware, software, and policy development aligned with real-world emergency response needs.
<h5>Drone as a First Responder (DFR)  </h5>
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One of the most groundbreaking applications of drones in public safety has been the Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program. The first of its kind launched in 2018 in Chula Vista, California, where drones were deployed directly from rooftop launch pads as soon as 911 calls were received. These drones provided real-time video to dispatchers and responding officers, creating unprecedented situational awareness.  
DFR demonstrated multiple benefits:  
- Getting eyes on the scene within minutes. &nbsp; 
- Enhancing responder and community safety by reducing uncertainty. &nbsp; 
- Improving operational efficiency, often allowing officers to be re-tasked before arriving on site. &nbsp; 
- Serving as a de-escalation tool, reducing unnecessary confrontations.  
Over time, DFR proved capable of locating missing persons, documenting accident scenes, assisting search and rescue, and even saving lives through faster response.  However, regulatory hurdles initially stalled widespread adoption. In 2020, DRONERESPONDERS established the Nationwide DFR Working Group, bringing together agencies operating DFR programs, agencies exploring adoption, and industry partners. Meeting monthly, the group shared experiences, identified obstacles, and coordinated advocacy with the FAA. Their efforts achieved a major breakthrough in 2025 when the FAA reduced the DFR waiver approval process from more than a year to less than a week. As a result, approvals skyrocketed from just 50 waivers over six years to nearly 600 waivers in four months.  
Today, DFR is regarded as one of the most significant advances in law enforcement technology in decades, reshaping how agencies respond to emergencies.  
<h5>Policy and Regulatory Advocacy  </h5>
On the regulatory front, DRONERESPONDERS continues to champion streamlined processes for waivers, exemptions, and authorizations across all disciplines. This includes advocacy on behalf of smaller volunteer fire departments, NGOs, and agencies conducting non-law-enforcement missions such as disaster response, firefighting, and environmental monitoring.
<h5>Working Groups  </h5>
Working Groups (WGs) have emerged as essential drivers of collaboration within DRONERESPONDERS.
Current WGs include:  
- Counter-UAS: addressing rogue or malicious drone activity and exploring lawful detection and mitigation strategies. &nbsp; 
- Women DRONERESPONDERS: building inclusivity, mentorship, and recognition for women in public safety aviation. &nbsp; 
- Search and Rescue (SAR): developing drone tactics for complex terrain, missing persons, and disaster response operations.  These groups provide a structured way for members to exchange information and collectively problem-solve, ultimately producing best practices that benefit the broader community.
<h5>State Chapters  </h5>
The need for state-level collaboration became evident in 2022 during the Florida ban on certain drones. Agencies quickly realized they needed a unified voice to educate legislators, coordinate resources, and organize training. Out of this necessity, the first DRONERESPONDERS State Chapter was born.  
Since then, additional chapters have launched in Texas, Ohio, and North Carolina, each hosting annual training conferences and creating localized support networks. These chapters bring critical drone knowledge closer to where agencies operate, ensuring smaller or rural departments can participate in the same ecosystem as larger urban programs. 
<h5>Training and Education: UNITE  </h5>
Recognizing the need for consistent training, DRONERESPONDERS launched UNITE (UAS National Initiative for Training and Education) in 2025. UNITE offers online courses, in-person training, and customized programs tailored to local or regional needs. A key objective is accessibility&mdash;ensuring that agencies do not have to travel long distances or spend significant funds to access high-quality instruction. This initiative represents a major step forward in standardizing public safety UAS training nationwide. 
<h5>Webinars and Knowledge-Sharing  </h5>
Awareness and outreach remain at the heart of DRONERESPONDERS. In 2021, the alliance began hosting monthly webinars with the FAA, providing agencies direct access to regulators for updates, Q&amp;A sessions, and policy discussions. These free webinars are recorded and archived on the DRONERESPONDERS YouTube Channel, continuing today on the second Wednesday of each month.  
In 2023, DRONERESPONDERS partnered with DroneLife to launch The Public Safety Drone Review, a monthly webinar covering the latest drone news followed by expert guest speakers. Held on the first Tuesday of each month, these sessions are also free, recorded, and uploaded to DroneLife TV.
<h5>Collaboration and International Partnerships  </h5>
Collaboration is the hallmark of DRONERESPONDERS. Notable projects include the International Public Safety Drone Directory/Dashboard, developed with NASA Ames Research Center and Esri. This dashboard now includes data from more than 1,800 agencies, detailing program start dates, numbers of pilots, types of aircraft, and missions flown.  
The network also extends globally, with partnerships such as the Canadian Emergency Responder Robotics Association (CERRA) and the UK Emergency Responder Robotics Organization (UKERRO). These international alliances promote cross-border knowledge-sharing and ensure global best practices are readily available.
<h5>Looking Ahead  </h5>
The evolution of drone technology continues rapidly. DRONERESPONDERS is actively exploring new frontiers including heavier-lift drones, Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) platforms, Counter-UAS (CUAS) capabilities, Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) systems, and advanced airspace coordination.  
These advancements are supported through collaborations with organizations like NASA, MITRE, ASTM, APSA, Police1, FireRescue1, Lexipol, California Fire Chiefs, Vets to Drones, Esri, the University of Virginia Center for Public Safety and Justice, and many more.  
As the landscape evolves, DRONERESPONDERS will remain a leading force ensuring that public safety professionals are prepared, connected, and empowered to integrate drones safely and effectively. Drones are no longer experimental tools&mdash;they have become essential assets in saving lives, protecting communities, and advancing the mission of public safety. &nbsp; Partner Agencies: APSA, ASTM, CALFIRECHIEFS, CERRA, ESRI, FUTURE POLICING INSTITUTE, FIRERESCUE1, IPSA, LEXIPOL, MITRE, NASA, NVFC, POLICE1, UKERRO, VETS TO DRONES &nbsp; MEMBERSHIP IS FREE &nbsp; If you need more information, send an email to <a href="mailto:charles@droneresponders.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">charles@droneresponders.org</a> &nbsp; &nbsp;

The DRONERESPONDERS Public Safety Alliance

Product News

15 September 2025
Drones are no longer being viewed only as futuristic prototypes; instead, they are being recognized as essential tools for industries ranging from agriculture to security.
Yet one of the most exciting frontiers drone deliveries has struggled to move beyond pilot projects into everyday reality. The reason is clear: the delivery of packages by drone at scale has been considered one of the hardest challenges in modern logistics.
At <a href="https://bulbuldelivery.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bulbul</a>, this challenge has been addressed through the development of a platform in which advanced algorithms, AI-driven decision-making, and machine learning techniques have been applied. As a result, drone delivery is being enabled not only as a possibility but as a scalable, safe, and sustainable solution.
<h5>From Aerospace Engineering to Building Bulbul</h5>
Ankur Verma, co-founder and CTO of Bulbul Inc. His career was initiated in India as project manager in Aviation IT projects, where he worked with major global airlines to strengthen their flight safety and quality assurance systems. Through this role, he gained a deep understanding for aviation regulations and systems engineering, yet he recognized that a critical opportunity was being overlooked: the application of advanced aviation logic to real-world last mile delivery challenges.
Inefficiencies in traditional logistics&mdash;delayed supplies, pollution, traffic congestion, and high last-mile costs&mdash;were frequently encountered, leading to a question that reshaped his professional direction:
Why wasn&rsquo;t the sky being utilized more effectively for everyday deliveries?
This question eventually led Mr. Verma to California, where Bulbul was co-founded with his partner Mr. Elyas. From the beginning, the mission was defined clearly: a reliable, autonomous drone delivery ecosystem was to be created to reduce costs, save time, and increase the resilience of logistics.
<h5>Why Drone Delivery Matters?</h5>
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Last-mile delivery has been identified as the most complex and expensive segment of traditional logistics. Whether food, retail products, or life-saving medicines are involved, the final leg of the journey has often been shown to account for over 50% of total delivery cost. Road-based methods have also been associated with congestion and higher carbon emissions.
The adoption of drones has been recognized as a compelling alternative, since they offer:
&bull; Faster response times in critical cases such as medical emergencies.
&bull; Reduced carbon footprint compared with cars, vans and bikes.
&bull; Accessibility to rural or disaster-affected areas where road infrastructure is unreliable.
However, three significant hurdles have been observed to limit the large-scale adoption of drone delivery:
&bull; Scalability &ndash; the difficulty of managing hundreds or thousands of drones across wide regions.
&bull; Safety and Reliability &ndash; the requirement to comply with airspace regulations and avoid risks in real time.
&bull; Interoperability &ndash; the challenge of enabling different types of drones (multirotor, fixed wing, hybrid VTOLs, etc.) and missions to operate together seamlessly.
These challenges have been the central focus at Bulbul.
<h5>Bulbul&rsquo;s Innovation: Smarter Skies, Not Just Smarter Drones</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/FTtGHgkzOer7WDULrHlCTyFUqo4XIVMcHJJq4LjW.png" alt="" width="673" height="379" />
Drone delivery initiatives have frequently been centred on hardware alone. Yet it has been observed that drones, when left without intelligent systems, are comparable to planes without air traffic control.
A platform-first approach has therefore been established at Bulbul. Within this approach, systems have been developed in which:
&bull; AI-driven route planning is utilized to optimize airspace usage, mission planning along with FAA&rsquo;s compliance checks.
&bull; Machine learning models are employed to predict technical issues before they occur, thereby maintaining safety.
&bull; Scalable infrastructure is applied to allow fleets of drones from multiple manufacturers to be coordinated under one unified system.
In essence, our goal is to develop a digital backbone for scalable drone delivery operations, where hardware and software have been integrated in a way that allows true autonomy and scale to be achieved.
<h5>Real-World Use Cases</h5>
At Bulbul, we are exploring three major markets:
&bull; Healthcare and Life Saving Logistics &ndash; life-saving drugs, AEDs and other medical supplies can be delivered within minutes to remote areas.
&bull; Food and Retail Delivery &ndash; Businesses are being enabled to serve customers more quickly and sustainably.
&bull; Emergency Response &ndash; Essential supplies can be transported when conventional routes are inaccessible.
During one study, delivery times for rural communities in hills were analyzed. Journeys that required over an hour by road were shown to be achievable in under 20 minutes using Bulbul&rsquo;s proprietary platform ADFP.
<h5>Building Trust Through Safety and Compliance</h5>
In aviation, trust has always been regarded as non-negotiable. For drone delivery, the same principle has been applied. At Bulbul, the following measures have been prioritized:
&bull; Predictive safety checks conducted with the support of AI models.
&bull; Compliance frameworks aligned with FAA&rsquo;s Part 135 Beyond Visual Line of Site (BVLOS) operations.
&bull; Fail-safe protocols integrated to guarantee mission continuity and safe landings with enhanced obstacle detection, inflight rerouting, Precision landing and Realtime RTH implementation.
Through these measures, confidence has been fostered among regulators, businesses, and communities alike.
<h5>The Road Ahead: From Drones to Air Mobility</h5>
Drone delivery has been positioned as the first step in a much broader transformation. The same principles&mdash;autonomous fleet operations, predictive analytics, and AI-driven airspace management&mdash;are expected to lay the foundation for urban air mobility. This future may include not only delivery drones, but also heavy-lift cargo systems and passenger eVTOLs.
At Bulbul, the vision has been articulated clearly: &ldquo;The skies are to be made as reliable and accessible as the highways used today.&rdquo;
<h5>A Call for Collaboration</h5>
The story of Bulbul has been defined by persistence and vision by the founding team. From the early years of Mr. Verma in aviation safety and quality assurance to the creation of a next-generation drone delivery platform ADFP (Automated Drone Flying Platform) here in California, each step has been guided by the principle of solving problems that matter.
A platform has been built that demonstrates what is possible, but it has also beenrecognized that scaling drone delivery globally cannot be achieved by one company alone. Collaboration&mdash;with regulators, innovators, and logistics providers&mdash;will be required to make this vision a reality. The skies are opening, and with the right partnerships, they can be transformed into a shared resource that is safe, efficient, and transformative for global logistics.
<h5>See the Future</h5>
<div style="padding: 56.25% 0 0 0; position: relative;"><iframe style="position: absolute; top: 0px; left: 0px; width: 675px; height: 379px;" title="Bulbul Drone Delivery" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1105113926?badge=0&amp;autopause=0&amp;player_id=0&amp;app_id=58479" frameborder="0" data-mce-fragment="1"></iframe></div>

Building the Future of Scalable Drone Delivery

12 September 2025
Over the past decade, drones have soared from novelty gadgets to essential tools in countless industries - and saltwater fishing is no exception. These high-tech devices are revolutionizing how saltwater anglers locate fish, deploy bait, and even ensure safety, from the beach to the boat.
But not just any drone will do. When it comes to open water, crashing waves, and corrosive salt spray, only <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://store.swellpro.com/pages/best-fishing-drones-swellpro" target="_blank" rel="noopener">waterproof drones that are purpose-built for fishing</a> can truly thrive.
Thanks to innovators like SwellPro, whose drones are built specifically for marine environments, anglers now have access to tools that extend their reach and increase hookup rates, offering new advantages and new possibilities across every major saltwater fishing category.
In this post, we will dive into all the fishing styles that SwellPro fishing drones can offer great assistance to. 
<h5>Shore Fishing: Casting Farther Past The Surf Zone</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/BziouMfPU47rkN8ztFl1ae414MXSnZHVQ20Rn55Y.png" alt="" width="459" height="206" />
SwellPro Fisherman Max FD2 
Shore fishing is one of the most accessible forms of saltwater angling and the top area where fishing drones find their way in. Almost every shore angler I know wants to increase their casting distance. Why? Because the bigger, elusive fish don&rsquo;t spend their time in the shallow surf. But with standard surf rods and reels, reaching deeper waters or active feeding zones isn&rsquo;t always possible - until now.&nbsp;
Instead of casting, you attach your bait and line to the SwellPro drone&rsquo;s payload release mechanism, fly it past the breakers, usually 100-300 yards out, and drop your bait exactly where you want it.&nbsp;
The result? You can fish offshore waters without a boat. And because they&rsquo;re fully waterproof and salt-resistant, you don&rsquo;t have to worry about sea spray or splashdowns.
In the United States, and some parts of Australia, land-based shark anglers are using drones like the <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://store.swellpro.com/products/fisherman-max?variant=40410407338064" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SwellPro Fisherman Max FD2</a> to carry up to 3.5kg of whole-fish bait and a heavy rig to hook up huge sharks. In the old days, their only option of getting baits out was by kayak, which brings much more work and risks than fun, especially in rough conditions.&nbsp;
<h5>Watch How Easy It Is to Drop Bait with SwellPro</h5>
<iframe style="width: 674px; height: 379px;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VOmSb-Zlnr4?si=m3DFbpDDohfIyVdm" width="674" height="379" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<h5>Surfcasting: From Beach Reader to Precision Striker</h5>
Some species like snapper, halibut and drum are tightly structure-oriented - hugging the edges of reefs, sitting just inside a gutter, or feeding along sandy drop-offs. For targeting bottom feeders, success isn't just about casting far - it&rsquo;s about casting accuracy. Experienced anglers often know how to read the wave patterns to reveal those fish-rich structures below the surface.
Today, with the help of SwellPro, surfcasters can fly overhead and use the drone&rsquo;s live video feed to visually confirm where the structure is, and more importantly, drop baits right into it with pinpoint accuracy.&nbsp;
It is very difficult to reach the structures with traditional casting gears, especially in wind, and requires wading waist-deep. Casting either too far away from a rock reef, or on top of it, you will miss the fish opportunities and might lose your rigs. This is where SwellPro waterproof drones with high definition cameras become a complete game-changer.&nbsp;
<h5>Watch How Fisherman Hook Big Bull Red from the Deep Ship Channel in Winter</h5>
<iframe style="width: 672px; height: 378px;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LP89ZU5Qg3M?si=xmZHZ9o2MxSzHjAS" width="672" height="378" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<h5>Sight Fishing For Pelagics&nbsp;</h5>
When it comes to saltwater thrills, few things match the heart-racing chaos of chasing fast-moving pelagic fish - like tuna, marlin, king mackerel, wahoo, and dorado. These apex predators move fast, hunt near the surface, and often appear in short, unpredictable bursts.
Traditionally, anglers relied on boats, binoculars, birds, and gut instinct to find them. But now, a growing number of serious saltwater anglers are using SwellPro as sky scouts to locate, track, and engage pelagic species in real time.&nbsp;
Whether you're fishing from the shore, cliffs, or a boat, you can fly SwellPro high to scan vast water, looking for signs of pelagic fish such as diving birds and bait balls, then fly fast to get closer to and drop lures or bait right in front of the fast-approaching fish.
<h5>The Future of Drone Fishing Has Just Taken Off</h5>
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/ScANQtNUvGvuheOKNl9BQf7jEDVTAB97XRR5ipOZ.png" alt="" width="457" height="504" />
If you search the hashtags of &ldquo;drone fishing&rdquo; on TikTok and Instagram, you will find tens of thousands of posts of fishermen showing off their catches with SwellPro or modified DJI bait droppers. Drone is no longer considered as luxury or novelty used by a few tech-savvy anglers. Drone fishing is becoming a mainstream fishing technique. And at the forefront of this movement is SwellPro, the company that pioneered fully waterproof fishing drones and continues to raise the bar.
As drone fishing grows, SwellPro is expanding its technology to support even more fishing styles, including:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sonar-equipped drones for aerial fish finding</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pre-baiting systems for freshwater carp and catfish anglers</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Smarter Automatic Bait Dropping Controlled by APP and GPS</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bigger payloads capacity for bigger baits and bigger fish</li>
</ul>
In the coming years, according to the foresight by the SwellPro team, waterproof fishing drones will become less expensive, and much easier to use - embraced by more average fishermen in all parts of the world.&nbsp;

Waterproof Drones Changing the Game of Saltwater Fishing 

11 September 2025
Whether it's the murder of Charlie Kirk in Utah or Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky in Washington D.C., politically motivated shooting attacks are absolutely tragic and wrenching.&nbsp;
But could the Kirk murder have been stopped if drones were in the air watching over the crowd and rooftops?
We first asked the question back in July 14, 2024, after a shooter tried to assassinate President Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.
Why didn't the Secret Service bolster its security team with drones?
<h5>Read the Articles</h5>
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/a-modest-proposal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/a-modest-proposal</a>
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/trump-assassination-attempt-we-asked-the-question-first" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/trump-assassination-attempt-we-asked-the-question-first</a>
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/opinion-where-were-the-drones-" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.thedroningcompany.com/blog/opinion-where-were-the-drones-</a>
<h5>Drones Can Help Avert Tragedy</h5>
As the United States turns ever more divisive, outdoor political rallies and debates are unfortunately becoming potential targets for shootings, bombings, and other mayhem. It's near impossible to guard against every possible attack with police and event security on the ground, and, in Kirk's case, he didn't want a shield of security personnel between him and his audience.
However, a few drones with trained pilots could hover over rooftops, entry and exit roads, nearby areas, and even the crowd to determine if a murderous criminal is setting up an attack. Any sightings could be immediately radioed to security on the ground to rush to the danger. In fact, the drones themselves could be deployed to distract, broadcast the exact location to nearby police and the public, and even injure or otherwise disable the shooter.
Drones are perfect for so many things. Eyes-in-the-sky threat assessement and neutralization for outoor gatherings seems obvious.
Unless, it seems, you're the group putting together the security team...
<h5>Alleged Sighting of Charile Kirk Shooter on Rooftop</h5>
<iframe style="width: 668px; height: 376px;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MTuvAYYnxxI?si=SWHcq_YlhW90i2wg" width="668" height="376" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

We Ask Again: Where Were the Drones?

11 September 2025
Commercial drone professionals from around the world gathered last week for the 11th edition of <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=post-event-pr&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV Expo</a>, held September 2&ndash;4, 2025, at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas. The event drew 3,393 verified professionals from all 50 U.S. states and 62 countries, out of 3,920 total registrants, and featured 230 exhibitors from 28 countries, reinforcing its position as the world&rsquo;s leading international trade show and conference focused on the integration and operation of commercial UAS.
&ldquo;This year&rsquo;s Commercial UAV Expo carried extraordinary weight, as it was the first major gathering of the drone industry since the FAA released its long-awaited Part 108 BVLOS NPRM,&rdquo; said Lee Corkhill, Group Event Director at Diversified, organizer of Commercial UAV Expo. &ldquo;Professionals knew they needed to be in Las Vegas to understand what the proposed rule means for their operations, ask questions, and engage in dialogue that will help shape the future of the drone industry. Add to that the product launches, networking, and demonstrations, and it was a can&rsquo;t-miss event.&rdquo;
<h5>Program Highlights</h5>
The conference program delivered practical, actionable education from more than 140 speakers, with sessions focused on regulatory updates, BVLOS operations, autonomy, AI, and real-world case studies.
The opening keynote, led by Buzz Solutions CEO Kaitlyn Albertoli and Dominion Energy&rsquo;s Thomas F. Butler, underscored the importance of proving ROI and avoiding the pitfalls of inaction in drone adoption. A subsequent presentation highlighted HDR&rsquo;s groundbreaking project as the first to conduct drone-based surveying in the Grand Canyon.
Throughout the week, panels tackled the FAA&rsquo;s proposed Part 108 BVLOS regulations, with spirited discussion on opportunities and challenges for operators. Additional sessions explored AI and autonomy, the future of advanced air mobility, and case studies from industries including energy, telecom, construction, and public safety.
Keynotes on the final day emphasized collaboration across industry and government and concluded with the presentation of the Eric Talley Memorial Award to Officer Matt Rowland, honoring outstanding leadership in public safety UAS.
<h5>Exhibitor Innovations</h5>
The exhibit hall showcased 230 companies unveiling cutting-edge drone solutions spanning hardware, software, sensors, and services.
Among the most notable product launches:
<ul>
<li>AIBOT debuted its T500 tiltwing aircraft alongside the new X Series UAV family, marking a milestone in high-speed, heavy-lift autonomous flight.</li>
<li>GeoCue introduced the TrueView 539 LiDAR system, delivering engineering-grade accuracy in a lightweight, accessible package.</li>
<li>Centinus unveiled its BOLO AI platform, enabling drones to move beyond passive surveillance to proactive investigative tools through real-time AI-driven object detection.</li>
</ul>
Other exhibitors, including ACSL, A2Z Drone Delivery, Phoenix LiDAR, FlyGuys, and more, also announced significant new offerings, further underscoring the event&rsquo;s role as the global launchpad for drone innovation.
The always-popular Pitch the Press competition returned, with DefendEye, Pants for Birds, and Skyline Nav AI named as winners by a panel of UAV industry journalists.
<h5>Special Features</h5>
This year&rsquo;s event introduced several exciting features designed to deliver hands-on value:
<ul>
<li>Pilot Institute Partnership &ndash; For the first time, Commercial UAV Expo partnered with Pilot Institute to offer exclusive workshops and hybrid online-to-onsite courses, including Drone Business Made Easy and Drone Mapping, Modeling &amp; Surveying. Pilot Institute also curated multiple sessions in the Pilot Hub.</li>
<li>Indoor Airspace Demonstration Area &ndash; A dedicated zone on the exhibit hall floor where attendees experienced UAV hardware and software in action.</li>
<li>Pilot Hub &ndash; A gathering place for drone pilots at all levels to gain insights into operations, training, and career advancement.</li>
<li>DRONERESPONDERS Public Safety Summit &ndash; Two full days of programming offering case studies and best practices for public safety UAS professionals.</li>
</ul>
<h5>Looking Ahead</h5>
If you couldn&rsquo;t make it to Las Vegas, event organizers encourage commercial UAV industry professionals join the inaugural <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.forumuav.com/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=post-event-pr&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV Forum</a>, taking place 22&ndash;23, April 2026 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
The next edition of <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=post-event-pr&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV Expo</a> returns to Las Vegas September 1&ndash;3, 2026, once again at Caesars Forum.
For ongoing coverage, visit <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.commercialuavnews.com/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=post-event-pr&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV News</a>, which provides in-depth reporting on the sessions, product launches, and announcements made during the event.
<h5>About Commercial UAV Expo</h5>
<a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.expouav.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV Expo</a>, presented by <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.commercialuavnews.com/?utm_source=marketo&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=post-event-pr&amp;utm_content=attendee" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial UAV News</a>, is an international conference and expo exclusively focused on commercial UAS integration and operation. The next edition will take place September 1-3, 2026, at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, NV.&nbsp; Commercial UAV Expo is produced by Diversified&rsquo;s technology portfolio, which also includes Commercial UAV News, Commercial UAV Forum, Geo Week, Geo Week Newsletter, Geo Business (UK), and Digital Construction Week (UK).

Commercial UAV Expo 2025 Convenes Global Drone Leaders

Drone Education

Above photo: A K-State Salina UAS instructor holds a remote control and teaches a student how to operate a multi-rotor drone over farmland.
10 September 2025
In the heart of America&rsquo;s Great Plains, <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="http://salina.ksu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kansas State University Salina</a> has become one of the nation&rsquo;s premier destinations for education, research and applied operations in Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, or UAS. With a rich aviation heritage and a strategic location in Kansas, the campus combines tradition with innovation, creating a unique environment where the next generation of UAS leaders are trained.
The campus&rsquo;s UAS program stands out for its depth and breadth. K-State Salina allows students to progress from basic multi-rotor operations to advanced experiences flying large aircraft beyond visual line of sight at altitudes up to 3,000 feet. This academic journey, paired with access to real-world research through the <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/research-training/applied-aviation-research-center/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Applied Aviation Research Center</a>, ensures graduates leave with not only technical proficiency but also leadership, adaptability and industry-ready skills.
<h5>A Foundation for the Future: Academic Progression</h5>
The structure of the <a style="color: #ba372a;" href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/academics/degree-options/uas-flight/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UAS program at K-State Salina</a> reflects a deliberate strategy to build confidence and competence step by step. Students begin with multi-rotor aircraft, the type most used in commercial sectors such as photography, inspections and surveying. Starting here allows students to learn fundamental concepts, including aircraft control, safety procedures and mission planning, using platforms they are most likely to encounter in industry.
Once students have mastered multi-rotor systems, they move to fixed-wing UAS. Unlike multi-rotors, which excel at hovering and maneuvering in tight spaces, fixed-wing aircraft offer greater endurance and efficiency, making them ideal for applications such as mapping large tracts of land or monitoring infrastructure. Transitioning to fixed-wing flight challenges students to adapt their skills and broaden their operational understanding, preparing them to work across multiple industry sectors.
The next stage introduces hybrid UAS, a rapidly growing category that combines the vertical takeoff and landing capabilities of multi-rotors with the endurance of fixed-wing flight. Hybrids represent one of the most promising areas of UAS development, and students at K-State gain direct experience with these systems long before many of their peers at other institutions. By working with hybrids, students explore the cutting edge of UAS versatility, preparing for roles where adaptability and forward-thinking innovation are crucial.
Finally, students also pursue an instructor upgrade. This advanced track allows them to step into leadership roles within the program by training their peers and refining their communication and mentoring skills. By the time they graduate, students have flown a wide range of platforms and demonstrated the ability to teach and lead, qualities employers value highly in today&rsquo;s competitive UAS workforce.
<h5>Beyond the Basics: Advanced UAS Operations</h5>
K-State Salina pushes far beyond the traditional boundaries of Part 107. Students gain hands-on experience with advanced operations that mirror the complex realities of the industry.
First, the program emphasizes beyond visual line of sight operations, or BVLOS. These are among the most transformative experiences for students, as BVLOS capabilities are critical for commercial applications such as long-range infrastructure inspections, agricultural monitoring and package delivery. At K-State Salina, students not only learn the theory of BVLOS but also actively engage in missions under controlled environments, giving them practical insight into one of the most valuable skill sets in the industry.
Second, students are trained to operate at altitudes up to 3,000 feet above ground level. This is well above the standard operational ceiling for most UAS programs and exposes them to the complexities of working in shared airspace. It requires a deep understanding of air traffic management, communication protocols and risk mitigation strategies. By preparing students for operations at these altitudes, K-State Salina ensures they are ready for the challenges of integrating UAS into the broader national airspace system.
Third, the program provides exposure to UAS weighing more than 55 pounds. K-State Salina offers opportunities for students to work with large platforms that are increasingly in demand across industries such as agriculture, cargo, and defense. This training sets the campus&rsquo;s graduates apart, as they enter the workforce with operational knowledge of systems few students ever touch before employment.
By integrating these advanced operations into the curriculum, K-State Salina ensures that students meet and exceed the minimum standards of UAS training. They leave equipped to take on the most complex challenges the industry has to offer.
<h5>The Applied Aviation Research Center: A National Asset</h5>
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K-State Salina's Applied Aviation Research Center provides extensive public safety drone training, guidance and research&nbsp;for law enforcement and other professional industries.
At the core of K-State&rsquo;s UAS program is the Applied Aviation Research Center, or AARC, a facility that bridges the gap between academia, industry and the federal government. Established to advance aviation research and support national priorities, the AARC is both a training ground for students and a hub of innovation for the UAS sector.
The center partners with federal and state agencies, private industry and community stakeholders to conduct research and testing in areas critical to the future of UAS. These include detect-and-avoid technologies, advanced air mobility systems, agricultural applications and disaster response. Projects range from evaluating large agricultural drones capable of covering vast fields, detecting and avoiding systems for safe integration of UAS into shared airspace, and developing strategies for deploying drones in emergencies such as floods, wildfires or tornadoes.
For students, this means more than just classroom learning. Through internships, research assistantships and project-based learning, they gain firsthand experience contributing to initiatives directly impacting the state and national levels. AARC involvement also connects students to industry leaders and policymakers, giving them insight into the broader ecosystem of UAS integration.
The result is an environment where students do not simply study technology but help shape its future.
<h5>Looking Ahead: Innovation in Curriculum and Pathways</h5>
While the program already ranks among the most comprehensive in the country, K-State Salina is actively working to stay ahead of industry demand. One major initiative is exploring reduced-credit degree options, designed to make programs more efficient while maintaining the high standards for which K-State is known. This reflects a broader national trend in higher education to provide students with flexible and affordable pathways that meet the needs of both learners and employers.
The department is also expanding its portfolio of certificates and micro-credentials. These offerings allow professionals already working in the field, or those seeking a career transition, to access targeted training in areas such as UAS data analytics, agricultural applications, or advanced operations. By catering to traditional students and lifelong learners alike, K-State Salina ensures it remains responsive to the changing dynamics of the workforce.
Another area of growth is the development of pipeline opportunities. By collaborating with high schools, community colleges, and workforce partners, the program creates clear entry points for students of all backgrounds to pursue UAS careers. Concurrent enrollment programs allow high school students to begin earning college credit in UAS, while partnerships with school districts introduce students to the field through initiatives like drone racing leagues and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) outreach events. These efforts ensure that the next generation of UAS professionals is both inspired and well-prepared before they even arrive on campus.
<h5>Why It Matters: National Significance</h5>
The UAS industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors of aviation, with applications ranging from logistics and agriculture to emergency response and infrastructure inspection. Yet the industry faces a significant challenge because the demand for skilled professionals far outpaces supply. K-State Salina aims to address this gap by producing graduates who are not only technically proficient but also adaptable, safety-conscious and confident leaders.
Kansas offers unique advantages for this work. With wide open skies, a strong aviation tradition and supportive state agencies, the environment is ideal for UAS training and research. However, the significance of K-State&rsquo;s program extends far beyond the state&rsquo;s borders. By pushing the boundaries of advanced operations, integrating academic rigor with real-world research and preparing students for leadership roles, K-State Salina is shaping the national conversation on how UAS can safely and effectively be integrated into society.
Graduates leave with more than a diploma. They carry practical experience in BVLOS operations, high-altitude missions and large aircraft systems. They have worked alongside researchers at the AARC and engaged with industry leaders on projects of national importance. This combination of experiences ensures that K-State alums enter the workforce ready to contribute and to lead.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/UuUcVWvYX0URpnzIwPrHyh2rUqh6ityLHM4O3rm0.jpg" alt="" width="668" height="445" />
A K-State Salina student looks at a large multi-rotor drone while a UAS instructor explains how it operates.
<h5>Conclusion</h5>
Kansas State University Salina is more than an academic institution. It is a launchpad for the future of uncrewed aviation. Through a carefully structured training progression, exposure to advanced operations, and engagement with cutting-edge research at the Applied Aviation Research Center, the program equips students with the skills and experiences that set them apart in the industry.
As UAS continues to transform industries, reshape communities and expand the boundaries of what is possible in aviation, K-State Salina is a national leader in preparing the professionals who will guide that transformation. From their first flight on a multi-rotor system to contributing to research that influences national policy, students at K-State do not simply learn about the future of aviation. They create it.

K-State Salina: Building the Next Generation of UAS Leaders

10 September 2025
&ldquo;This situation brings us the closest we have been to open conflict since World War II," said Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk about Russian combat drone flights that entered Poland's airspace early today.
Four Russian drones out of an alleged 19 were shot down by the Polish military with assistance from NATO&mdash;the alliance's air command, as well as the Dutch Air Force, scrambled F-35 fighters to support Poland's own defense efforts. Poland claimed a "significant number" of the drones were launched from Russian ally Belarus&mdash;a country known for deploying assets for attacks on Ukraine. No injuries or deaths resulting from the incursion were reported at press time.
Not surprisingly, Russia and Belarus denied the strike was intentional.
Belarus offered a somewhat weak explanation that the drones "lost their way" and even had to destroy some of them flying over their own skies. For its part, Russia acknowledged a large-scale strike against western Ukraine, but maintained there "were no targets envisioned for destruction on the Polish territory,"
The Russian Defense Ministry also offered to consult with the Polish Ministry of Defense on the matter.
However, as the Russian drone flyovers mark the first ever airspace violation for a member of NATO, Polish authorities appear less inclined to believe the situation was caused by a technical error or some other problem.
"There were 19 breaches, and it simply defies imagination that it could be accidental," said Polish Foreign minister Radosław Sikorski. "This is a threat not only to Poland. This new technology of the mass use of drones is a threat to all of the EU and we need to face it together.&rdquo;&nbsp;
President Trump, whose efforts at ending the Ukraine conflict have been ineffective, posted the following on his Truth Social platform: &ldquo;What&rsquo;s with Russia violating Poland&rsquo;s airspace with drones? Here we go!&rdquo;
The ramifications of the airspace violation for NATO and the United States could be dire.
Some military experts feel Russian President Vladimir Putin was "testing" NATO with the strike to see how far he could push things in Russia's favor. There are also opinions that the drone campaign may have been "payback" for Poland's support of Ukraine&mdash;not to mention the country's logistical importance as a hub for NATO and U.S. weaponry.&nbsp;
"We stand by our NATO Allies in the face of these airspace violations and will defend every inch of NATO territory," said U.S. ambassador to NATO Matthew Whittaker.&nbsp;
Hopefully, this is an isolated incident, but it may change the position of Poland in the Russia/Ukraine conflict.
"Poland is now a part of this war," said Michael Bociurkiw, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council think tank. "They are much more on the front line than they were 24 hours ago."
<h5 class="body-graf">Watch Reaction to Russia's "Reckless" Airspace Violation of NATO Member</h5>
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Poland Destroys Russian Drones Violating Polish Airspace

08 September 2025
California-based drone startup <a href="https://sifly.co/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SiFly</a> recently bested the previous "longest flight time" for a quadcopter with its Q12 model, setting a Guinness World Record in the process.
The SiFly Q12 now owns the top time with a confirmed and validated three-hour, 11-minute flight.
But extended flight times for drones aren't simply award record fodder or cases for manufacturer bragging rights. As the FAA looks to expand approved BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) distances, longer flight times will mean more extensive operational duties for drones.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve got millions of quadcopters being made every year for consumer applications,&rdquo; said Brian Hinman, founder and CEO of SiFly, in an interview with <a href="https://www.flyingmag.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FLYING</a>. &ldquo;Why can&rsquo;t that thing scale up? And why can&rsquo;t it be made efficient? There is no good reason why.&rdquo;
<h5>How Does the Q12 Fly Longer and Farther?</h5>
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<div id="google_ads_iframe_/22595167374/FlyingMidArticle1_0__container__">To take full advantage of longer and farther drone ops, Hinman believed the "technology limitation problem" had to be addressed&mdash;a key reason why he started SiFly in the first place.</div>
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&ldquo;You have to have a system that operates for hours on a single charge, not minutes on a single charge,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;In addition, you need a system that goes many, many miles, rather than just a couple.&rdquo;
Not surprisingly, SiFly is seeing tons of preorders for its Q12.&nbsp;
So, how did the company expand time and distance?
&bull; The company is approaching an "optimal battery weight" fraction of approximately two-thirds.
&bull; The battery cells discharge at around one-sixth the rate of other drone and eVTOL batteries.
&bull; The Q12's large rotors require less power to generate lift, as well as avoiding high disc loading and power-devouring flight.
&bull; In addition, the Q12's smooth and flat blades don't suffer from taper and twist that increases aerodynamic drag.
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&ldquo;You put all this stuff together, and that&rsquo;s how you end up in a place where you can hover for two-plus hours and cruise for three-plus hours,&rdquo; said Hinman.
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<h5>See the Q12 in Action</h5>
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SiFly Drone Sets Guinness World Record

05 September 2025
The battle between ranchers and gray wolves has been waged since the days of the pioneers.
Keeping cattle safe from wolf attacks has seldom been easy&mdash;nor 100-percent successful&mdash;and since the once-teetering-on-extinction gray wolf was reintroduced to Yellowstone National Park and other areas in the mid-1990s, the conflict has intensified. Today, hundreds of gray wolves roam in Washington and Oregon, thousands ramble around the Great Lakes, dozens are making their home in Northern California, and the population in the Nothern Rockies is such that the apex predators are no longer considered endangered.
That's good news for the species, but the result has also seen the killing of more than 800 domesticated animals across ten states by gray wolves&mdash;and that's just from a 2022 survey.
The increased threat over the years has prompted ranchers to protect their lifestock by killing the beasts (when approved by officials, as per a recent decision in the state of Washington), or using electrified fencing, horseback patrols, guard dogs, various alarms, trapping/relocating, or other means.
Now, drones have entered the fray. And AC/DC, too!
A team of biologists&mdash;who are currently working around the California-Oregon border&mdash;are experimenting with drones delivering rock-concert volume levels of audio from Austrailia's finest hard-rock band, as well as live "warning" voices, recorded gunshots, and movie clips to scare gray wolves away from cattle. The disruption techniques were developed by USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service scientists, and successes were monitored using thermal imaging cameras during night time, when the wolves are most dangerous to livestock groupings.&nbsp;
With apologies to AC/DC, a preliminary study in 2022 showed that wolves do not appreciate rock music&mdash;or human voices&mdash;blasted at them from airborne drones.
&ldquo;If we could reduce the negative impacts of wolves, that is going to more likely lead to a situation where we have coexistence,&rdquo; said USDA lead researcher Dustin Ranglack.
The successes have been encouraging, but there are some caveats...
Currently, the tech for cattle protection by drone requires a model with night vision and the appropriate loudspeaker&mdash;which can cost up to $20,000 per drone. Professional training needs to be factored in, as well, and the drones are far less effective in heavily wooded areas.
In addition, gray wolves are smart. They can already determine&mdash;eventually&mdash;that deterrences such as cables tied with noisy fluttering flags aren't threats.
So, what's to say that the wolves don't learn to love AC/DC and start headbanging along with the music as they pursue helpless cattle?
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&ldquo;I&rsquo;m very appreciative of what the USDA researchers are doing," said cattle rancher Mary Rickert, who resides near Mount Shasta. "But I don&rsquo;t think it&rsquo;s a long-term solution. I&rsquo;m afraid that after some period of time, the wolves suddenly go, &lsquo;Wow, this isn&rsquo;t going to hurt me. It just makes a lot of noise.&rsquo;&rdquo;
<h5 class="endmark body-graf">See the AC/DC Defense in Action</h5>
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AC/DC's "Thunderstruck" Is Screaming from Drones to Save livestock

04 September 2025
<a href="https://robotican.net/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Robotican</a>, a leading Israeli pioneer in the development of autonomous robotic and drone technologies, has introduced a powerful new capability for its combat-proven ROOSTER hybrid drone system: a precision-guided warhead, turning the ROOSTER into a loitering munition designed specifically for indoor missions and urban operation.
The newly integrated configuration includes a total payload capacity of up to 300-gr enabling the installation of a precision warhead alongside additional mission-specific payloads. This allows the ROOSTER to deliver high-precision engagement inside buildings, tunnels, and confined environments. Retaining its signature hybrid design, the ROOSTER can seamlessly switch between rolling and flying, allowing it to navigate tight spaces and deliver targeted strikes with minimal collateral damage.
<img src="https://media.thedroningcompany.com/images/tincy/BL12oPAcUWEefr2uYhPkblb9L8QdVL46HRaOmvqc.jpg" alt="" width="677" height="381" />
This breakthrough capability is supported by AI-based object detection and target Tracking &amp; locking, enabling the ROOSTER to autonomously identify, track, and lock on to user operator objects or threats. A built-in multi-layered safety mechanism ensures secure handling and controlled activation, protecting friendly forces throughout operation.
&ldquo;With the armed ROOSTER, we are bringing precision and autonomy to environments that were previously off-limits to loitering munitions,&rdquo; said Hagai Balshai, CEO of Robotican. &ldquo;Forces can now conduct surgical strikes inside structures with a compact, intelligent platform that minimizes risk to operators and surrounding civilians.&rdquo;
The armed ROOSTER expands the system&rsquo;s mission scope beyond ISR, rescue, and inspection to include neutralization of threats in urban warfare, subterranean operations, and hostage rescue scenarios- all while maintaining the system&rsquo;s lightweight, single-operator portability and NATO-registered reliability. Thanks to its modular design and mission-specific payload integration, the ROOSTER offers unmatched operational flexibility, allowing forces to configure the system for diverse operational requirements, from intelligence gathering to precision engagement. This adaptability significantly increases its tactical utility in dynamic and unpredictable combat environments.
<h5>About Robotican</h5>
Founded in 2013, Robotican is a leading Israeli pioneer in the field of advanced autonomous robotic systems for aerial, ground and C-UAS systems. The company combines academic expertise with real-world operational insight to deliver reliable, mission-ready solutions for defense, homeland security, and commercial global partners.

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