Smart LTE powers PH Red Cross-Nokia drone system for disaster response solution

The Philippine Red Cross in partnership with Nokia Saving Lives, has now a drone system that boosts its disaster response efforts. It will operate on Smart Communications' high-speed connectivity during times of emergency.

Nokia's drone

The drone system is part of Nokia Saving Lives, a program that aims to provide communications technology and technical assistance to emergency response teams.

The officers of Smart and Red Cross

This initiative was showcased at the recently concluded Mobile World Congress 2018 at Barcelona, Spain organized by GSMA--an organization of nearly 800 operators and more than 300 mobile companies all over the world.

Red Cross responders can now assess current status of lifelines and analyze immediate needs and gaps in times of need through the system's drones, portable data center, mobile broadband network, and applications like video streaming, gas sensing, mapping, and analytics.

Through Smart's high-speed LTE connectivity and Nokia's portable Ultra Compact Network, a secure communication between drones, other equipment, and rescuing team members can be created in the system.

We are happy to be part of this project by providing vital communications support for the operations of the drones. This project is in line with our commitment to deploy tech innovations for the benefit of communities, particularly during times of disasters, said Ramon R. Isberto, PLDT and Smart public affairs head.

Different types of cameras, sensors, and speakers can be equipped with the drone. It can even carry first aid kits. Meanwhile, the portable data center is a computing and storage unit that can be used for immediate data analysis.

Smart and the Philippine Red Cross had been partners for disaster response efforts and blood donation drives. Smart has also extended a support to the Red Cross chapters all over the country on various occasions in times of calamities by providing communications facilities and helping set up first-aid stations, among other activities.

This is part of Smart's #SafePH advocacy that aims to help build resilient communities and reduce disaster-related casualties through technology.