Axon and DJI team up on drones for public safety

Axon and DJI have announced a partnership which will allow DJI to sell its drones directly through the new Axon Air programme, which also links DJI’s drone technology with Axon's connected data network and Evidence.com services.

The partnership was announced at the third annual Axon Accelerate conference for more than 1,500 police, security, legal and technology professionals from around the world.

Axon states that more than 900 American public safety agencies use drones to improve officer safety, support tactical actions, reconstruct traffic collisions, support public safety at large events and perform search-and-rescue missions. It also says that at least 130 people around the world have been rescued from peril by drones.

Evidence.com is a data management system with chain-of-custody controls and security protocols that law enforcement agencies use to preserve and protect data from body cameras and in-car video systems.

"As the requirements and demands of unmanned aircraft programs grow, Axon is partnering with agencies to build out solutions that meet the complexities and requirements of public safety," said Axon's EVP of worldwide products, Todd Basche. "Together, we will focus on creating situational awareness, advanced evidence collection and program management tools that will allow agencies to manage their drone program alongside their body camera and in-car video systems."

"DJI's partnership with Axon allows law enforcement agencies to add drone capabilities and data services through the same trusted provider they rely on for the tools, data and support they need to do their jobs safely and effectively," said Michael Perry, managing director of North America at DJI. "Law enforcement agencies are rapidly adopting drones for their work, and often need guidance on how to establish a drone program and integrate it into their departments. DJI's Axon Air partnership will strengthen and enhance law enforcement's ability to protect public safety, respond to emergencies and save lives."

Axon will partner with public safety agencies to identify the solutions that meet the demands of their communities and will bring drone video into the Axon Network of people, devices and apps..