Nearly Half of First Responders Expect Daily Drone Use Within Five Years

Verizon Frontline Survey Highlights Growth in Drone Use Among First Responders

A new survey from Verizon’s Frontline program indicates that public safety agencies are preparing for a major shift in technology adoption. The 2025 Verizon Frontline Public Safety Communications Survey shows that nearly half of first responders expect to use drones and robotics on a daily basis within the next five years, compared with only a small portion who do so today. This projection underscores how quickly drones are moving from specialized tools to standard equipment in emergency response.

The Rise of Drones in Public Safety

The survey finds that 15 percent of respondents currently use drones or robots every day. That figure is expected to climb to 48 percent within five years. The anticipated growth reflects a recognition that drones can provide critical support in environments that are dangerous, remote, or otherwise difficult to access. The report highlights that expanded FAA permissions, including relaxed visual line of sight requirements, are expected to accelerate this trend.

Technology and Network Priorities

The findings suggest that reliable communications remain the foundation for wider drone adoption. First responders place high importance on dependable connectivity to ensure that drones can transmit video, telemetry, and sensor data in real time. Many agencies are already making investments in communications infrastructure to prepare for this growth. Strong networks will be necessary not only for routine operations but also for emergency scenarios where coverage is critical.

Cybersecurity is another priority that agencies are beginning to address. As drones and robotics generate and transmit increasing amounts of sensitive information, public safety leaders are implementing more protections to defend against cyber threats. The survey found that more than two thirds of respondents have recently introduced new cybersecurity measures. This reflects an understanding that widespread drone use must be supported by strong safeguards for data integrity and system reliability.

Operational Implications for Drone Programs

As public safety agencies prepare for broader adoption, several themes emerge. The cost of equipment and training remains a concern, and agencies will need to balance budgets with the value that drones provide. Standardization and interoperability are also important, as different drone systems must integrate into broader emergency response operations. Training and workforce readiness will be essential as drones shift from occasional use to everyday reliance.

The survey points to several areas of focus for the future:

• Expanding reliable network coverage to ensure drones can function in diverse environments

• Integrating cybersecurity protocols into daily drone operations

• Establishing operating procedures and training programs that prepare agencies for routine drone deployment

Challenges and Public Considerations

The path toward daily drone use is not without obstacles. Technological maturity, including battery life and reliability in harsh conditions, still limits certain missions. Public acceptance will also play a role. Concerns over privacy, noise, and airspace safety remain part of community discussions and may influence how quickly agencies can expand their drone fleets. Regulatory compliance, while improving with new FAA guidelines, continues to require careful planning and resources.

The Verizon Frontline survey paints a clear picture of the direction in which public safety operations are moving. Drones and robotics are becoming a central part of emergency response strategies, with expectations for daily use growing rapidly. To realize this vision, agencies will need to invest in communications infrastructure, cybersecurity, training, and community engagement. For the drone industry, the findings highlight a significant opportunity to support first responders as they embrace new technologies to protect and serve their communities.

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• Congress Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Drone Funding for Law Enforcement
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