Ohio positions itself as leader in advanced drone technology

During a recent government meeting, Ohio officials highlighted the state's advancements in advanced air mobility, particularly in the realm of drone technology for first responders. Representative Holmes emphasized Ohio's position as a potential national leader in this field, inviting experts to share insights on the state's current capabilities.

Sean Calhoun and Deputy Chief Ron Clark provided an overview of Ohio's Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) capabilities, noting the state's pioneering efforts with the SkyVision system. This system, recognized as the first ground-based detect-and-avoid technology in the nation, facilitates beyond-visual-line-of-sight operations at altitudes up to 18,000 feet. Additionally, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is working on deploying Uncrewed Traffic Management (UTM) systems to ensure safe operations across the state.

The officials underscored the importance of building a robust digital infrastructure to support these advancements, which they believe will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of first responders. The meeting concluded with a call for further questions, indicating a commitment to transparency and collaboration in advancing Ohio's drone technology initiatives.