News release
Kelowna RCMP begins Remotely Piloted Aircraft System tests to enhance policing enforcement
November 12, 2025
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Kelowna, British Columbia
From: Kelowna RCMP
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The Kelowna RCMP is excited to begin a pilot project of testing the DJI Matrice 300 drone to enhance policing enforcement efforts after seeing effective integration of the remotely piloted aircraft system in other cities.
Test flights of the RCMP’s Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) will be over a one-week span focussing on the downtown core.
During these test flights the RCMP have several objectives as they embark on policing in this new age. Some of the objectives include;
- Enhance real-time situational awareness for frontline officers,
- Reduce response times and increase efficiency in locating suspects, victims, and persons of interest,
- Improve risk assessments for high-risk incidents before members arrive on scene,
- Assess the aircraft’s capability in supporting officer safety,
- Identify and mitigate potential risks, including privacy concerns and operational challenges.
“By utilizing the remotely piloted aircraft system in the field, we will be able to assess routine calls for service, mitigate high-risk incidents, provide monitoring of large gatherings in regards to public safety and assist in search and rescue files,” says RCMP Inspector Jason Charney. “It will evaluate the feasibility of the aircraft-assisted policing in Kelowna, with a focus on officer safety, efficiency, and operational effectiveness. The results will inform potential long-term implementation, optimizing police resources and enhancing community safety.”
To assess the effectiveness of the RPAS, key performance indicators will be recorded throughout the pilot project. These analytics will provide quantifiable data to determine operational benefits of the drone system within the City of Kelowna.
All test flight operations by the RCMP shall be conducted as part of a police training operation with appropriate, situationally dependent security provisions in place to minimize risks to the public and others involved.
The use of the remotely piloted aircraft system technology in policing is no longer theoretical, it is actively and successfully implemented by multiple law enforcement agencies across Canada including the Vancouver Police Department, Alberta RCMP, Red Deer RCMP and the Edmonton Police Service. The Kelowna RCMP respects the privacy rights of our citizens and commits to ensure preservation of those rights, balanced with public and officer safety, in using the remotely piloted aircraft system in the course of our policing duties. The remotely piloted aircraft system is just another tool that is operated under the existing laws and policies that guide police officers in investigating crimes. Additionally, the aircraft is used by the RCMP are operated by trained RCMP pilots who are well-versed in the strict regulations for use of the systems in accordance with Transport Canada Special Flights Operations Certificates.
The first test flight is scheduled for the week of November 17, 2025.