Red Deer, Alta. – On Thursday June 18, 2026, Red Deer RCMP officially launched our Drone as First Responder Program (DFR), becoming the first program of its kind in Canada. This is a significant step forward in modernizing public safety while enhancing service to our community.
This endeavour was a collaborative team minded approach. In partnership with Red Deer Municipal Policing Services, Red Deer Emergency Services, K Division RCMP Air Services, and our local RCMP drone pilots, the Red Deer RCMP have been able to bring the DFR program to life.
Our DFR program is currently operating Mon - Fri from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with the drones being launched from both the north and south Red Deer RCMP detachments. The pilots remotely fly the drones from their respective control centers providing aerial oversight during calls for service.
A unique feature of our program is the direct communication between drone pilots and community members. In appropriate circumstances, trained pilots will contact complainants while the drone is responding to their call. This provides an opportunity to gather additional information and offer updates on the police response.
In the first week of our launch, the DFR pilots were able to successfully deploy the drone to a complaint of an assault, where the suspect fled on foot. The pilot was able to track the suspect from the air, which ultimately led to the safe arrest and apprehension of the suspect.
Pilots also responded to a call for service involving weapons. The DFR pilot was able to deploy the drone and very quickly determined there was no weapon involved; and no threat to public safety. “This is a prime example of how the DFR can provide updated and essential information to responding officers, as well as increase public safety,” says Staff Sergeant Jay Jestings.
During Canada Day, our DFR had a significant impact on public safety by responding to various types of calls throughout the day.
Our DFR program continues to operate in conjunction with our pre-existing Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS). RPAS will continue to be used as a portable response tool for police as we strive to enhance service delivery.
A media event will be held on July 29, 2026, which will include representatives from our partnering agencies. Stay tuned!!
-30-
