Kelowna RCMP to test drone use in downtown

Nov 12, 2025 | 4:16 PM

Kelowna RCMP are ready to deploy a drone to help combat crime.

Test flights of the unmanned aircraft will be over a one-week span focusing on the downtown core.

RCMP said the aims are to enhance real-time situational awareness for frontline officers, reduce response times and increase efficiency in locating suspects, victims, and persons of interest.

Police said all test flight operations will 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.

“By utilizing drones 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,” RCMP Inspector Jason Charney said in a media release.

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“It will evaluate the feasibility of drone-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.”

RCMP said key performance indicators will be recorded throughout the pilot project to assess the effectiveness of the drone. 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.

by Vernon Matters Staff

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