Aerial Drone–AI Wildfire Detection Sensor Fusion System to Lead Nationwide Wildfire Response Innovation and Contribute to Public Safety

Ulsan Information Industry Promotion Agency (President: Jang Byung-tae) has been selected, in partnership with SKYSYS Co., Ltd. and the Pohang Institute of Industrial Science and Technology (RIST), for the “Disaster and Safety Industry Technology Commercialization Support Program” organized by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety (MOIS).

The selected project is titled “Development of a Tethered Aerial Vehicle–AI LoRa Wildfire Detection System for Large-scale Wildfire Spread Prevention.”

The core goal of the project is to develop a system that combines a tethered aerial vehicle with AI-powered LoRa wildfire detection sensors, enabling real-time wildfire monitoring and rapid response, both day and night.

By significantly improving the initial response capabilities to wildfire outbreaks, the system is expected to help suppress wildfire spread, minimize casualties and property damage, and contribute to forest preservation.

This project will proceed in stages beyond prototype development, including field demonstrations and the establishment of a commercialization foundation. It is expected to expand into national safety networks such as local governments, the National Fire Agency, and the Korea Forest Service.

With the selection, the project will receive up to 770 million KRW (approx. USD 550,000) in government funding over two years until 2026, with a primary focus on developing and demonstrating advanced technologies and products for large-scale wildfire prevention.

Jang Byung-tae, President of Ulsan Information Industry Promotion Agency, stated,
“Recent large-scale wildfires in areas like Ulju County have caused significant nationwide damage. Through this project, we aim to lead innovation in Korea’s wildfire response system and generate meaningful results that contribute to public safety.”