Monitoring border areas and security-critical areas is a key challenge. Illegal border crossings, human trafficking, and threats such as terrorism require modern, efficient security strategies. Using drones, sensor platforms and AI-supported analysis methods enables optimized operational coordination and improves the ability to respond in dynamic threat situations.

HyDroMon is developing an intelligent, AI-supported monitoring system that networks and coordinates heterogeneous operational modules - including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), mobile operational teams, and a deployable base station. The aim is to collect, analyze and provide mission-relevant information in real-time.

The core innovations of the project are:

• Heterogeneous teaming approaches for optimal collaboration between different systems
• Optimized UAVs and sensor platforms for improved data collection
• AI-supported real-time analysis for the detection and classification of objects (e.g. people, vehicles)
• Cooperative mission management for the efficient control and monitoring of operations
• Advanced situational awareness and mission management modules to support the emergency services

HyDroMon is developing a modular functional demonstrator that is being tested in realistic test scenarios. The research is based on national and international project results and is carried out in close cooperation with security organizations. Through innovative technologies and practical evaluations, HyDroMon is helping significantly improve surveillance measures' efficiency and security.

Project partners

• JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH (management)
• Disaster Competence Network Austria
• twins gmbh
• FH JOANNEUM Gesellschaft mbH
• Austrian Federal Ministry of Defense

The project is financed through the KIRAS funding program of the Federal Ministry of Finance.