The Community of Madrid continues to champion drone technology as a key tool for various services, including fire prevention and extinction, critical infrastructure monitoring, logistics, and emergency healthcare. President Isabel Díaz Ayuso visited a new drone service management center deployed by Telefónica in the capital, reinforcing public-private collaboration.
In this context, a new aid line has been presented, with approximately 1.5 million euros, aimed at the development and use of drones by private companies. The call for applications, open until July 31st, is for SMEs and medium-sized enterprises based in the region and can be applied for online.
Subsidies will cover productive investments up to €350,000, consulting and certification services up to €150,000, and event attendance up to €100,000. SMEs can finance between 10% and 35% of productive investments, while mid-sized companies can opt for investment aid covering 10% to 15% of their cost.
These grants complement the creation of a "drone one-stop shop" to streamline municipal procedures, such as flight permits, and the development of a specific regional network for the sector. The Executive is also working on establishing a "dronodrome" to foster research and a specialized center in Fuenlabrada for training pilots, mechanics, and developers.
"The Community of Madrid is innovation and the future," stated Díaz Ayuso, highlighting the technology for businesses and public services. During her visit, she observed the remote operation of these technologies firsthand.
Current uses highlighted include the real-time acquisition of emergency images by SUMMA 112, forest surveillance to prevent fires, and the delivery of medical supplies and sanitary material between hospitals.
The Community of Madrid positions itself as a leader in the sector, hosting around 30% of drone manufacturing and assembly companies in Spain and ranking second in the country for registered professional operators, with approximately 3,200 active.
In terms of training, the region hosts 31% of companies approved by the State Air Safety Agency and leads in the official certification of pilots and specialized technicians.
