Drones and AI revolutionize emergency response at Berlin's Schoenhagen Airfield

The Technical University of Wildau (TH Wildau) is testing drones for emergency response at Schoenhagen Airfield, just south of Berlin. These unmanned aircraft could soon play a key role in tackling wildfires and detecting buried munitions. The university, founded in 1991 with around 3,500 students, uses the airfield as a research hub for aeronautical engineering. Its projects include a flying laboratory—a research aircraft equipped for testing new technologies. Now, drones controlled via 5G networks are being trialled for rapid disaster response.

AI-assisted robotic systems may also help scan runways for obstacles, improving safety. Brandenburg's Science Minister Manja Schüle (SPD) called the work a forward-looking project. She added, *'With this, the TH Wildau is bringing innovation to the skies and strengthening the region as a future aviation hub.'* The university's goal is clear: apply its expertise to real-world challenges. By developing practical solutions, it aims to address urgent issues like fire management and unexploded ordnance detection.

The drones at Schoenhagen Airfield mark a step toward smarter emergency systems. With 5G control and AI support, they could soon assist firefighters and bomb disposal teams. The project also reinforces the region's growing role in aviation research.