CHESA Launches Turnkey Drone First Responder Program for Public Safety Agencies Nationwide

May 6th, 2025

Baltimore, MD — CHESA (Chesapeake Systems), a leading U.S.-based systems integrator, is proud to announce its new Drone as First Responder (DFR) solution for public safety agencies across the United States. This fully integrated offering empowers police departments, fire and rescue, EMS teams, and federal agencies to rapidly deploy drone technology for faster, safer, and more informed emergency response, with CHESA providing all hardware, software, integration, training, and support.

Built on CHESA’s decades-long expertise in complex systems architecture and mission-critical solutions, the DFR program enables agencies to launch drones immediately after 911 calls, providing real-time situational awareness before first responders arrive on scene. This capability enhances responder safety, reduces response times, improves decision-making, and brings cost-effective aerial support to agencies of all sizes.

“We’ve seen time and time again that in emergencies, every second counts,” said Jason Paquin, CEO of CHESA. “A Drone First Responder program gives public safety teams a head start, with real-time, high-definition video from the scene, integrated seamlessly into their existing command systems. CHESA is proud to offer the full package: from the drones to the streaming, to the software integrations that make the intelligence truly usable,  all supported by our experienced team.”

A Unified, End-to-End Emergency Response Solution

CHESA’s DFR solution is more than just equipment, it’s a strategically designed, agency-ready program. From initial consultation through deployment and beyond, CHESA handles everything: drone procurement, video streaming configuration, integration with command and dispatch platforms, compliance with FAA regulations, training for responders, and ongoing technical support.

At the core of this offering are proven technologies from trusted CHESA partners: Skydio, whose autonomous drone systems deliver reliable aerial intelligence, and LiveU, whose real-time video transmission technology ensures low-latency streaming in the most critical moments. These best-in-class systems are fully integrated and managed by CHESA, allowing public safety agencies to focus on saving lives, not managing hardware and software.

“We’ve built this solution to be turnkey,” Paquin added. “Agencies don’t need to stitch together vendors or worry about compatibility. With CHESA, they get a single point of accountability and a seamless system designed for mission-critical reliability.”

Why Drone First Responders Are Transforming Public Safety

CHESA’s DFR solution is a direct answer to some of the biggest challenges facing modern emergency response:

  • Faster Scene Assessment: Drones arrive minutes ahead of ground units, providing live overhead video to dispatchers, command staff, and responders. This accelerates decision-making and helps prioritize resources immediately.
  • Increased Responder and Civilian Safety: Aerial views reduce the risks of entering unknown or dangerous situations by identifying hazards before personnel go in.
  • Real-Time Collaboration: CHESA ensures live drone feeds integrate into command centers, mobile devices, and existing workflows, enabling coordinated response among all teams.
  • Cost-Effective Force Multiplier: DFR systems provide the benefits of aerial surveillance without the high cost or logistics of manned aircraft.

Agencies deploying similar programs have reported dramatic reductions in response times, safer officer outcomes, and more informed decisions — including successful life-saving rescues and early incident de-escalation.

CHESA: The Trusted Partner Behind the Tech

What sets CHESA apart is its deep systems integration expertise and client-focused approach. As a long-standing leader in designing and managing complex technology environments, CHESA is uniquely positioned to bring DFR programs to life, not just as a vendor, but as a strategic partner.

CHESA works directly with public safety stakeholders to:

  • Tailor DFR deployments to agency workflows and jurisdictional needs
  • Train staff to operate and monitor drone technology effectively
  • Maintain and upgrade systems over time, ensuring long-term reliability
  • Navigate FAA approvals and compliance requirements

In short, CHESA provides the strategy, tools, and long-term support that agencies need to confidently adopt and sustain drone-first responder capabilities.

“This isn’t just about deploying drones, it’s about transforming how agencies respond, communicate, and protect their communities,” said Paquin. “CHESA makes that transformation possible.”

Ready for Any Agency, Any Size

Whether an agency already operates drones or is starting from scratch, CHESA’s solution is scalable, customizable, and fully supported. CHESA can integrate into existing drone programs or deliver full-stack capabilities with drone hardware, video systems, and cloud-based control platforms. With national reach and a commitment to excellence, CHESA is ready to help public safety leaders bring their DFR vision to life; quickly, effectively, and affordably.

About CHESA

Founded in Maryland, CHESA is a trusted systems integrator with over 30 years of experience designing, building, and supporting complex media and technology solutions. CHESA brings that same reliability and expertise to public safety, offering fully managed, mission-ready Drone First Responder programs that help agencies protect communities and save lives.

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