New offering combines Parrot aircraft, autonomous docking, and SkyfireAI software with training, regulatory support, and a multi-year purchasing model.
Evolver DFR, a new offering from Drone Nerds and parent company XTI Aerospace, has launched an integrated Drone as First Responder (DFR) program for public safety agencies. The system combines aircraft, autonomous docking, flight management software, and operational support in a single package.
Announced October 22 ahead of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Annual Conference in Orlando, the program aims to simplify DFR adoption for police, fire, and emergency management agencies.
“Launching a DFR program involves more than purchasing a drone. Agencies need the aircraft, software, infrastructure, training, and ongoing support to make the system part of their daily operations,” said Jeremy Schneiderman, Interim CEO of XTI Aerospace and CEO of Drone Nerds. “Evolver DFR brings those pieces together through a single solution.”
Combining Aircraft, Docking, and Software
Evolver DFR integrates the Parrot ANAFI UKR GOV drone, DBOX PRT autonomous docking station, and SkyfireAI’s FlyAura software.
The Blue UAS-approved ANAFI UKR GOV features wide-angle and telephoto cameras with 35x zoom and a 640-resolution thermal sensor. It also offers AES-256 radio link encryption and FIPS 140-2 compliance.
The climate-controlled DBOX PRT enables autonomous launch, landing, and recharging in a range of weather conditions.
SkyfireAI’s FlyAura platform supports remote flight operations, live video streaming, and information sharing through a web browser. It also provides TAK integration and searchable flight records.
Together, these components allow agencies to dispatch drones to emergency calls and provide live aerial information to responders and incident commanders.
Deployment and Operational Support
Evolver DFR includes coverage planning, site selection, installation, system integration, and training. The team also helps agencies obtain FAA approvals, including Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) authorizations.
Drone Nerds’ Always Flying service provides expedited replacement aircraft, technical support, and maintenance resources.
Agencies can manage their own operations or use SkyfireAI’s operational support services.
“The future of Drone as First Responder isn’t just about getting an aircraft in the air. It’s about what happens before, during, and after every mission,” said Don Mathis, CEO of SkyfireAI. “With FlyAura, we’re bringing AI-assisted mission planning, remote flight operations, and real-time intelligence together in one platform. Combined with SkyfireAI’s operational expertise, Evolver DFR gives agencies the flexibility to manage their own programs or rely on our team to operate them. That’s how we move DFR beyond individual deployments and make it a scalable, everyday public safety capability.”
A Different Purchasing Model
Evolver DFR also offers an alternative to subscription-based DFR programs.
According to the company, agencies can purchase a complete, multi-year program covering multiple locations through a single purchase order, without recurring subscription fees for the contracted solution.
The approach may simplify procurement and provide more predictable costs. The announcement does not specify pricing or contract lengths.
By combining equipment, software, regulatory assistance, and ongoing support, Evolver DFR offers agencies a single-source option for establishing or expanding drone-based emergency response.
The system will be on display at IACP 2026 in Orlando from October 24 through 26, at Booth 2761. More information is available at Evolver DFR.
Read more:
- GeoComm and SkyfireAI Aim to Improve Location Intelligence for Drone as First Responder Programs
- Introduction of the New Parrot Drone Anafi UKR at the Paris Air Show
- Conroe Police Launch DFR Program Funded by Criminal Asset Seizures
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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