Seattle-based BRINC has launched a drone system featuring integrated Starlink satellite connectivity and a robotic charging infrastructure. The Guardian drone system is designed for 24-hour 911 emergency response, utilising an automated docking station to manage battery swaps and mission readiness without human intervention.

The Guardian drone is paired with the Guardian Station, a robotic nest that facilitates continuous operations by automatically replacing depleted batteries. This hardware configuration addresses the charging downtime common in previous drone models. The system also features automated payload management, allowing the drone to carry and deploy medical supplies, flotation devices, or other emergency equipment based on the specific requirements of a 911 call.

“Guardian changes the paradigm, supporting true 24/7 operations and enabling advanced operations like vehicle pursuits,” said Blake Resnick, Founder and CEO of BRINC. He noted that the system overcomes previous limitations in camera capabilities and connectivity.

The system includes a robotic charging nest that swaps batteries and redeploys to new missions. It responds to calls up to eight miles away. The drone offers 62 minutes of flight time and IP55 weather resistance. It features a 4K video camera with 640x total zoom and dual HD thermal zoom cameras. An integrated Starlink satellite panel allows the drone to maintain a reliable data link in areas without cellular infrastructure.

BRINC has established an alliance with Motorola Solutions to integrate the Guardian system into command centre software. This integration allows AI to identify keywords in emergency calls and automatically prompt for drone dispatch. The company is expanding its manufacturing capacity in Seattle to support the scaled production of the vertically integrated, US-built platform.