Aerial Support Services – using drones to reduce risk

A client operating in a high threat, safety critical, and austere environment identified that capabilities offered by drones could make a valuable difference to the way it conducted Battle Area Clearance.

They believed that the use of our drones services could make it more efficient, safer, and more easily assured by both customers and stakeholders. This case study demonstrated to the client the benefits and opportunities in fully integrating an array of aerial services, based on drones and associated geo-mapping tools, into a high risk, safety critical operation.

01. Problem

The client’s problem was one of limited capacity and expertise in an area that is evolving extremely fast.

They wanted information and surveillance capabilities which historically were only available to the Military.

Other challenges included:

  • the relatively low cost and speed of image capture,
  • the longer timescales typically associated with processing and analysis.
  • Ensuring no detraction from ongoing operations on the ground.

02. Approach

Whilst deployed this was used as the medium to generate dialogue, and help identify process improvement opportunities for our customer.

The following solutions were delivered:

  • Live Aerial video to reconnoitre clearance routes,
  • High resolution 3-D Mapping to support planning and execution,
  • Using drones to provide civilian security companies with low cost ‘eye in the sky’ capabilities,
  • Pilots and support staff trained to UK CAA standards,
  • Innovative use of geo-mapping tools to help decision makers visualise the ground and dangers.

 

This  task allowed Cervus to demonstrate its credentials and understanding of Aerial Support Services.

Over a period of 8 days the Cervus team embedded within the client’s operations team, working alongside at their operational tempo. We added value throughout, and developed a deep dialogue with the on the ground experts on how best to integrate the capability. A variety of logistical and environmental challenges were met head on and managed effectively so that the team met and exceeded the original expectations.

03. Relevance

The project demonstrated to the client the benefits and opportunities in fully integrating an array of aerial services, based on drones and associated geo-mapping tools, into a high risk, safety critical operation. In addition, the ability of Cervus to respond quickly to customers needs was demonstrated in full.  This allowed lessons to be identified on operating in austere and challenging environments, and scaling projects into more strategic support services.

Across a range of industries and environments, it offers significant benefits where efficiency, safety, and assurance are highly valued. Working in partnership with a highly respected client represented a model for how best these needs can be addressed as the challenge of commercialising these capabilities continues to evolve.

04. Conclusion

This consultancy task once again allowed Cervus to demonstrate its credentials and understanding of Aerial Support Services, which across a range of industries and environments.

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