A pioneering research project, SNS-JU 6G-VERSUS, is investigating innovative, partnership-driven solutions to improve wildfire detection and response. This innovative initiative is funded by the European Union’s Horizon Innovation Action program. It ultimately wants to develop a truly integrated system that connects a canine robot with an aerial drone. The project was recently showcased at an event in Birmingham, which focused on how artificial intelligence can help address global challenges.
Increasing situational awareness for first responders on the frontlines of a wildfire event is the main goal of the SNS-JU 6G-VERSUS project. Dr. Kamran Mahroof from our partner the University of Bradford, whose Dr. Nationally, climate change has made wildfires more urgent and severe, he said.
“Wildfires are a global phenomenon and have been increasing in frequency and intensity in recent years.” – Dr Kamran Mahroof
The West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, Climate Emergency Collaboration and the National Fire Chiefs Council are all working to combat these fires with all-terrain vehicles. They utilize cutting edge mapping technology, artificial intelligence, and weather forecasting applications to forecast fire behavior. This increases their emergency response effectiveness. As part of that agreement, the service has provided for the development of lightweight personal protective equipment specifically designed for firefighters working in wildfire conditions.
The SNS-JU 6G-VERSUS project will further welcome Greek researchers on board. Dr. Konstantinos Katsaros and Dr. Lazaros Karagiannidis from the Institute of Communication and Computer Systems (ICCS) will lead next year’s pilot study. This groundbreaking research will take place in Greece. The University of Bradford team intends to journey there in person to take part in the 6G technology trials.
“In the Greek pilot of SNS-JU 6G-VERSUS, we’re developing a combined robotic dog and aerial drone system that boosts situational awareness for first responders during wildfires.” – Team
According to Dr. Mahroof, it is essential to leverage technology to replenish global firefighting resources and expand capabilities.
“By applying AI to interpret real-time camera feeds and using 6G links to relay the data, we can help teams quickly identify people at risk and deploy resources where they’re needed most, all while keeping responders safe.” – Team
The grant project is a smart and proactive approach to improving emergency response measures as wildfires continue to grow in presence and destruction.
“The whole idea for us is to identify wildfires as soon as possible.” – Dr Kamran Mahroof