DroneSense and MatrixSpace have partnered to push the boundaries of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations, delivering a groundbreaking solution for public safety agencies across the United States. Their joint solution combines radar-based situational awareness with advanced mission management software, transforming how drones are deployed in first responder scenarios.
Palm Springs and Campbell Lead the Way in BVLOS Drone Deployments
Two major public safety agencies have achieved historic milestones using this integrated solution:
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Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) has expanded its Drone as First Responder (DFR) programme, now covering 37 square miles—the largest radar-monitored first responder coverage area in the US. This marks a significant shift from traditional human visual observers to fully radar-based operations.
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Campbell Police Department (CPD) became California’s first law enforcement agency to secure FAA authorisation for single-operator BVLOS missions under a Part 91.113(b) waiver. This waiver enables the CPD to operate drones more safely and effectively, especially during night-time, low-visibility, or adverse weather conditions.
Radar Technology and Software Integration Are Driving Public Safety Innovation
“The partnership between two exceptional technologies—DroneSense and MatrixSpace—is a game-changer,” said Chief Charles L. Werner (Emeritus-RET), Director of the DRONERESPONDERS Public Safety Alliance. “It delivers critical situational awareness to real-time crime centres, fusion centres, and command staff through a single mission platform.”
The collaboration supports a turnkey solution for public safety operations, combining airspace management, radar coverage, and automated flight operations under one interface.
“DroneSense is leading the charge in advancing operational best practices and technology for public safety,” said Lori DeMatteis, Chief Revenue Officer at MatrixSpace. “Together, we’re delivering next-generation radar and software integration for safe, scalable BVLOS operations.”
The Future of BVLOS Drones as First Responder Programmes
As demand increases for real-time aerial intelligence, more public safety agencies, regional consortia, and critical infrastructure providers are turning to BVLOS drone solutions. The use of ground-based radar sensors is rapidly emerging as a key enabler of night-time and weather-resilient drone operations.
With growing FAA support for Part 91.113(b) BVLOS waivers and increased operational confidence, this partnership is helping set the new standard for public safety drone deployments across the country—and soon, globally.
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