Met Police launches drone-as-first-responder programme
James
The Metropolitan Police has launched a major new trial that will see drones deployed as first responders to emergency incidents across London, as the force continues to increase the use of real-time data and automation in frontline policing.
Known as the Drone as First Responder (DFR) programme, the initiative allows drones to be dispatched directly from the Met’s control room within seconds of a 999 call. Operated remotely by trained pilots, the drones can reach a scene within two minutes, streaming high-definition video to both the control centre and officers en route.
The technology is designed to give police instant situational awareness, enabling faster and better-informed decisions when responding to incidents such as missing persons, ongoing crimes, or public safety emergencies. The live footage helps control room staff deploy the right resources more efficiently, while supporting officers on the ground with real-time intelligence - from suspect descriptions to environmental risks.
The Met says the new system will make responses quicker, safer and more effective, while also reducing costs and environmental impact compared to traditional helicopter support. The DFR drones are smaller, quieter, and cheaper to operate, but deliver comparable operational benefits.
Initially launched in Islington, the Met plans to expand the trial to two additional London sites by the end of the year, including the West End and Hyde Park. The project is part of the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) drones programme, which is testing similar technology in several forces including Norfolk, West Midlands and Thames Valley.
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, the NPCC’s national lead for drones, described the technology as “a vital new tool” for a more precise and efficient police service. “Our Drone as First Responder programme will see police resources arriving at crime scenes quicker, tracing suspects, locating missing people and delivering intelligence when Londoners need us most.”
Each drone is housed in a weatherproof box on selected police building rooftops, where it remains charging until dispatched. When deployed, the aircraft provides a live video feed directly into the control room, before automatically returning to base to recharge.
(Photo credit: Metropolitan Police)
