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The government is investing £46.5m to ‘drive drone regulations’ with an emphasis on developing a new ID system to track drones in real-time with a so-called ‘numberplate system’ for the skies.
A bespoke drone identification system called Hybrid ID will, said the government, make it easier for police to identify illegal or nuisance users and clear the way for legitimate drone operators.
Hybrid Remote ID works by sending out the drone’s ID and location during flight so nearby devices can pick it up, sharing flight details through a secure online system that can be used by emergency services even when they are not nearby.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis said: “Law enforcement will be able to identify and take action against those who break the law, taking drones out of the sky and protecting the public.”
The money will be channeled through the Civil Aviation Authority where its Director of Future Safety and Innovation, of Sophie O’Sullivan, said that this ‘vital funding’ will support innovation and strengthen safety. She added: “Work going on right now is laying the foundations for commercial operation in the future, unlocking routine drone deliveries, long-range inspections and hospital logistics.”
Part of the overall investment will be used to reduce burdens for drone operations for the emergency services by speeding up approvals, streamlining digital application processes and reducing the time required to navigate regulations and prepare applications.
Listen to Sophie O’Sullivan at The Emergency Services Show 2025 where she joined a panel looking at the future use of drones.
