Hanson K1
1Toll Uncrewed Systems
Biography:
To follow.
Abstract
Funded by a NSW Health Sustainable Futures Innovation grant, the NSW Ambulance Remotely Piloted Aircraft Capability System (RPACS) trial has been exploring how drone technology can enhance aeromedical and special operations in remote and complex environments. NSW Ambulance partnered with Toll Uncrewed Systems to support the development of this emerging capability and in 2025 seven NSW Ambulance critical care and special operations paramedics were equipped with the training and certifications to operate drones in search and rescue missions.
In 2026, four NSW Ambulance paramedics undertook further training to refresh operational skills and strengthen real-world deployment capability, with two advancing through Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) training. The training ground was Blue Mountains NSW with its rugged terrain and history of complex search and rescue incidents providing the ideal real-world environment to safely test and validate drone operations. During this phase, 14 operational taskings were recorded, including six RPAS deployments involving active flight operations.
A notable tasking on 6 May highlighted the capability’s impact. Two hikers, lost near Fortress Creek without adequate clothing or lighting, were located within three minutes of drone deployment. Real-time aerial vision allowed crews to establish communication, assess patient condition, and guide ground teams safely through challenging terrain, while maintaining overwatch and illumination.
The trial continues to demonstrate how RPAS technology can significantly enhance aeromedical response by accelerating search operations, improving crew safety, and enabling faster, more informed decision-making. Integrating drones into existing emergency response frameworks creates a more agile and technologically