Virgin Media O2 tests 5G drone technology in Snowdonia National Park

Virgin Media O2 has partnered with the Snowdonia Aerospace Centre to test new 5G drone technology to help emergency services and mountain rescue volunteers save lives. The drones will deliver network coverage in remote areas, helping emergency services respond better to calls for help.

Virgin Media O2 is providing 4G and 5G connectivity across the Snowdonia area in Wales using a ‘Dragon’ unmanned aircraft system (UAS) provided by Snowdonia Aerospace. The drone will deliver a standalone 5G NR (New Radio) airborne network if extra mobile connectivity is needed to help visitors in distress. As well as supporting voice calls in remote areas, it will also help emergency services share pictures and make video calls. 

The project is funded through the Innovate UK Future Flight Challenge and a transport drone technology research grant from the UK Department for Transport. It also involves SwiftFlight Avionics, Wavemobile and the Welsh government.