Automated damage inspection and situation assessment with UAS
Early detection of fire hazards in Lower Saxony’s forests using drones.
New funding project launched in Lower Saxony:
AI-supported drone system for forest firefighting using fire development forecasts, enabling faster, data-based decision-making
Motivation
The growing threat posed by vegetation fires in Lower Saxony requires new approaches to early detection and effective firefighting. The aim of the project is to develop an AI-supported, automatic drone system that significantly improves decision-making processes in fire detection and firefighting. The system combines modern unmanned aerial systems (UAS), advanced AI algorithms, and interaction methods for drone-based detection and situation assessment, as well as situational awareness.
Innovation
The planned AI-supported drone system enables state and nationwide optimization of forest firefighting through faster, data-based decision-making processes.
This innovative approach makes a significant contribution to the early detection and effective control of forest fires and protects nature and infrastructure in the long term.
Solution
The innovative project framework is based on combining and supplementing a wide variety of data sources with real-time aerial imagery to enable early detection and more accurate predictions of the emergence and spread of forest fires. The automated drone system (VTOL-UAS – vertical take-off and landing fixed-wing drones) is integrated into existing control center systems and ensures seamless communication with the responsible emergency services and situation centers. In addition to fire detection, the system will generate tactical situation pictures, optimize resource management, and enable dynamic and flexible deployment routes.
Partner
The consortium is made up of specialized partners:
- Copting GmbH ― Expertise in the field of UAS and control systems
- Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e. V. (DLR) ― AI-based assistance systems and interfaces
- OECON Products & Services GmbH (Projektleitung) ― Control center software and drone management system
Close cooperation between these partners will result in an automated, interoperable system that will not only improve firefighting, but also increase the safety and efficiency of emergency services.
Funding body: EU European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), State of Lower Saxony
Funding program: Multifondsprogramm 2021-2027, Programmgebiet „Stärker entwickelte Region“ (SER)
Grant reference number: ZW 3 87054671
Project sponsor: State of Lower Saxony / NBank
Duration: 2 years (08/2025 – 07/2027)
