Boston, MA, August 28, 2026 — The Boston Police Department (BPD) has initiated a pilot program aimed at enhancing emergency response capabilities through the deployment of drones. This new initiative, known as “Drone as First Responder” (DFR), was launched in collaboration with Motorola Solutions and BRINC.

The DFR program involves the use of FAA-certified drones that will be operated by trained Boston Police Department pilots. The primary objective is to enable these drones to reach emergency scenes rapidly, offering dispatchers and officers on the ground an immediate aerial perspective. This capability is intended to significantly improve situational awareness for first responders and potentially reduce response times for incidents occurring throughout the city.

By providing real-time aerial video feeds, the drones are expected to offer crucial information about an unfolding situation before officers arrive. This could include details on the number of individuals involved, the layout of a scene, or potential hazards, thereby allowing for more informed decision-making and safer deployment of personnel.

The program’s success hinges on its ability to integrate drone technology seamlessly into existing emergency response protocols. The collaboration with Motorola Solutions and BRINC suggests a focus on leveraging advanced technology and expertise in drone operations and communication systems. Specific details regarding the number of drones deployed, the exact timeline for the pilot program, or the particular types of incidents for which the drones will be prioritized were not provided. However, the initiative is designed to benefit both residents of Boston and the first responders serving the community by offering a technological edge in critical situations.


Story summarized from the original created by Media Relations on police.boston.gov, see more information here.

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