Draganfly Drones Deployed with Search and Rescue Sweden

Executive Summary

• Draganfly announced the deployment of its drones integrated with Smith Myers ARTEMIS Mobile Phone Detection & Location Systems for SAR Sweden’s search‑and‑rescue missions.
• The solution combines Draganfly Apex and Commander 3XL platforms with payloads ranging from 0.52 kg to 10 kg, offering up to 35 km detection range and support for 48 cellular bands.
• Joint flight testing confirmed mechanical/software integration, stable performance in harsh weather, and end‑to‑end SAR mission workflows, positioning the system as a cost‑effective alternative to helicopter operations.

Key Details

• Partnership: Draganfly Inc., Smith Myers Ltd., and Search and Rescue Sweden (SAR Sweden).
• Platforms & Payloads:
• Apex drone – lightweight payloads for rapid deployment.
• Commander 3XL – larger payloads for long‑endurance missions.
• ARTEMIS MPDLS payload weight options: 0.52 kg – 10 kg; maximum detection range 35 km; supports up to 48 cellular bands.
• Testing Outcomes:
• Successful mechanical and software integration of ARTEMIS on both airframes.
• Stable flight performance of the ARTEMIS T‑U payload on Commander 3XL in harsh weather.
• Validated full SAR workflow: detection, localization, mapping, data relay, and ground‑team communication.
• Operational Benefits: Faster deployment, wider search‑area coverage, enhanced detection accuracy, and reduced mission costs versus traditional helicopter‑based rescues.
• Regulatory Context: Recent European regulatory changes limited certain UAVs for public‑safety missions; the integrated solution meets compliance requirements for national SAR operations.
• Future Availability: Smith Myers payloads will be offered across Draganfly’s full UAV lineup, extending capability to police, military, fire services, and other emergency responders.

Notable Quotes

• “After our joint testing … the performance, particularly in challenging weather, exceeded expectations…” – Richard Öesterlindh, Head of Development, SAR Sweden
• “Completing the full integration of ARTEMIS MPDLS across several Draganfly UAS platforms demonstrates how quickly we can deliver robust, operational capability into the uncrewed space.” – Andrew Munro, Managing Director, Smith Myers
• “This collaboration reinforces Draganfly’s commitment to supporting organizations dedicated to saving lives.” – Cameron Chell, CEO, Draganfly