Fotokite launched new product for firefighters in the US successfully

The Zurich-based startup Fotokite has teamed up with Pierce Manufacturing, an Oshkosh Corporation, and the leading provider of fire apparatus and the first company to introduce frontal airbags as well as the side roll protection system to fire apparatus. Together the companies introduced the Pierce Situational Awareness System.

Launched in the United States and marketed as SIGMA, the product is mainly designed to help in emergencies. It is actively tethered to unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) integrated directly into public safety vehicles. It consists of the Ground Station and the Kite, a tablet computer that runs Fotokite LIVE and receives the thermal and low light video streams. By a single push of a button, the system provides teams with actionable information throughout their mission including live transmission to in-transit responders and document mission-critical aerial views of the scene during a fully autonomous flight. Operating the system requires no piloting license nor certificate of authorization.

Unlike conventional drones that can only operate for 30 minutes, Fotokites drones guarantee longer flights, thanks to its patented tether that continuously delivers power to the drone. Further, the drone remains robust in the rain, snow, and windy conditions.

Having obtained the Special Flight Authorization from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the U.S, the System is already installed and operational in major firefighters departments across the US including the integration into the Pierce Engines, Frontline Command Vehicles, and Fire Chief’s SUVs. Firefighters used the systems in live fire responses, search and rescue missions and in structure collapse inspection.

As Fotokite celebrates the new milestone and serves the US market, it will continue to benefit from Pierce Manufacturing’s extensive network.

(Press release/ran)