Firefighting drones (like IKA-01 and IKA-20) provide a fast, targeted way to suppress
early-stage fires and
stubborn flare-ups by carrying and deploying fire-extinguishing balls, with payload capacities ranging from 1 up to 12 balls depending on the platform and mission setup. Drones are equipped with a
thermal camera that enables
reliable detection of elevated temperatures through smoke and low-visibility conditions, allowing the system to autonomously identify hot spots, navigate to them, and perform
precise drops of fire suppressant exactly where it is needed most. This approach reduces response time, limits unnecessary dispersal of suppressant, and improves safety by keeping personnel at a distance from hazardous areas. However, real-world success and overall
firefighting effectiveness are directly tied to the effectiveness of the suppressant itself because the drone primarily acts as a rapid delivery and precision placement tool, while the suppression outcome depends on how efficiently the deployed balls extinguish or contain the fire at the target hot spot.
Drone with dropping mechanism and fire-extinguishing balls