Welsh wildfire risk to be assessed by aerial drone technology

Drone technology could be used to detect, monitor and tackle wildfires, supporting emergency services during these destructive events, according to researchers from Cardiff University.

The team plan to use uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with advanced sensing capabilities to survey large and difficult-to-access areas quickly and safely.

On-board thermal and optical imaging would help authorities identify hotspots not easily visible from the ground, they say.

Artificial intelligence (AI) analysis of the data in near real time could also help identify vegetation changes, heat patterns and other indicators of increased fire risk.

By combining aerial information with weather, terrain and environmental data, the team’s ambition is to develop predictive tools capable of highlighting high-risk areas and supporting decisions before and during a wildfire.

The project, led by Cardiff University and Swansea Airport Stakeholders’ Alliance, will run a one year pilot study in the Gower Peninsula from October 2026, where wildfires are a growing concern and place pressure on fire and rescue services while threatening communities, wildlife, infrastructure and environmentally sensitive landscapes.

Project lead Dr Rukshan Navaratne, a Reader in Power and Propulsion at Cardiff University’s School of Engineering, said: “Aerospace research is not only about developing the next generation of aircraft. Technologies being developed for aviation – from autonomous systems and advanced sensors to artificial intelligence and aerial platforms – can help address major challenges facing society.

“Wildfires are extremely dynamic events where we think this technology can make a big difference. In these events, conditions can change rapidly, while some areas firefighters need to reach can be difficult or dangerous to access. Providing accurate information from the air could give emergency responders a clearer understanding of how a fire is developing and where resources are most urgently needed.”

Designated in 1956 as the first area of outstanding natural beauty in England and Wales, the Gower Peninsula is recognised for its spectacular coastline, habitats and distinctive cultural landscape.

The Peninsula is home to important habitats and rich archaeological and historic assets, reflecting human activity from prehistoric times onwards.

Bob Oliver MBE, Chairman of project partner Swansea Airport Stakeholders’ Alliance, said: “Swansea Airport sits at the heart of the Gower community, and we recognise the importance of protecting this extraordinary landscape for future generations. We are delighted to work with Cardiff University on an initiative that brings aerospace technology, local knowledge and public service together.

“The airport has the potential to provide a valuable operational base for developing and demonstrating aerial wildfire monitoring technologies. By bringing researchers, aviation specialists and emergency responders together, we hope to help build a capability that delivers real benefits for Gower and, ultimately, communities across Wales and beyond.”

The project builds on Cardiff University’s research in aerospace engineering, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence and advanced sensing.

Alongside drones, the team also aims to explore larger aerial platforms, which might provide complementary capabilities in rapid reconnaissance and environmental monitoring to future specialist systems supporting wildfire response.

“The aim is not to replace the expertise of firefighters or emergency responders,” explains Dr Navaratne.

“Instead, we want to provide better information and technological tools for faster, safer and more informed decision-making to help safeguard landscapes, heritage and communities.”