Milwaukee Police Department Launches Drone as First Responder Pilot Program

MILWAUKEE, WI (January, 14 2026) – The Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) is pleased to announce the launch of the Drone as First Responder (DFR) pilot program.

DFR is a police response strategy which utilizes pre-positioned drones launched from stationary launch points to enable rapid deployment to calls for police service, often prior to uniformed squad response, in order to enhance civilian and officer safety by increasing situational awareness.

Drones are operated by a Remote Pilot In Command (RPIC) that is stationed in the DFR command center. RPICs monitor the calls for service and launch the drones to the scene to assist and provide vital information to the responding officers.

DFR docks are currently located at Milwaukee Police District Seven and respond to calls in districts three, five and seven.

MPD is committed to working with our community to build sustainable neighborhoods, free of crime and maintained by positive relationships. Together we are better.

Click here to view instances where a drone was deployed to enhance public safety: Drone Flights

Click on link to see DFR in action: https://youtu.be/9XritDEkZN8

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.