Transforming Emergency Response
Paladin Drones, a Houston-based technology company founded in 2018 by Divy Shrivastava, is at the forefront of integrating autonomous drone technology into emergency response systems. The company’s mission is to deploy autonomous drones to 911 calls, providing first responders with real-time aerial intelligence before they arrive on the scene. This approach aims to enhance situational awareness, reduce response times, and ultimately save lives.
Company Genesis and Vision
The inception of Paladin Drones was inspired by a personal experience of its founder, Divy Shrivastava. After a friend’s house fire and a subsequent campus church fire during his time at the University of California, Berkeley, Shrivastava recognized the critical need for better situational awareness for first responders. These events led him to establish Paladin with the vision of having a UAV respond to every 911 call in the United States by 2027.
Drone as First Responder (DFR) Technology
Paladin’s core innovation lies in its Drone as First Responder (DFR) system, which autonomously deploys drones to emergency scenes, providing live video feeds to first responders en route. This technology addresses the common issue of limited information during emergency calls, enabling responders to assess situations more accurately and plan their approach effectively.
The DFR system utilizes LTE-enabled drones, allowing for autonomous deployment from any location without the constraints of traditional radio-based systems. This capability extends the operational range and flexibility of the drones, making them a force multiplier for departments facing staffing shortages.
Product Suite and Technological Advancements
Paladin offers an all-in-one DFR solution that integrates advanced software with drone hardware to provide seamless, real-time intelligence for mission-critical operations. The system is designed to be user-friendly, enabling quick deployment and integration into existing public safety workflows.
A notable addition to Paladin’s product line is the Paladin EXT, an LTE module that enhances the capabilities of DJI M30T and M350 drones. The EXT connects directly to cellular networks, enabling Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations and ensuring reliable connectivity for extended missions.
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
Paladin has established strategic partnerships to enhance its DFR capabilities. A significant collaboration is with SkyeBrowse, integrating real-time 3D modeling into DFR workflows. This partnership allows for the rapid creation of accurate 3D models from drone video feeds, providing first responders with detailed situational awareness before arriving at the scene.
Additionally, Paladin has partnered with T-Mobile to leverage LTE connectivity, further extending the operational range and reliability of its drones.
Funding and Financial Growth
Since its founding, Paladin has raised a total of $4.42 million over three funding rounds from investors including Khosla Ventures, Y Combinator, and others . In 2024, the company secured $5.2 million in seed funding to expand its software capabilities and increase market presence.
Paladin’s revenue has shown significant growth, reaching $13.1 million in 2024, up from $1.8 million the previous year. This growth reflects the increasing adoption of its DFR technology by public safety agencies.
Impact and Future Outlook
Paladin’s DFR system has been adopted by various public safety departments across the United States, demonstrating its effectiveness in real-world scenarios. For instance, during Hurricane Helene, Paladin’s drones provided critical aerial intelligence to emergency responders in Asheville, North Carolina, showcasing the technology’s potential in disaster response.
The company’s focus on enhancing emergency response through autonomous drone technology positions it as a key player in the evolving landscape of public safety solutions. With continued innovation and strategic partnerships, Paladin aims to further integrate its DFR system into emergency response frameworks nationwide.
