U.S., Israel, and Iran War

Drone attack disrupts Dubai flights as Iran continues Gulf attacks

Iranian drones triggered a fire near Dubai International Airport on March 16, disrupting flights and forcing diversions. Civil defence teams quickly contained the blaze, and authorities temporarily suspended flights to ensure safety. Meanwhile, missiles and drones struck other parts of the UAE and Abu Dhabi, killing a Palestinian when a missile hit his vehicle. Additionally, fires erupted at Fujairah’s industrial zone after debris from intercepted drones fell, but officials reported no injuries. Iran justified the attacks by citing U.S. military bases in Gulf countries; however, airports, ports, and oil facilities across the region sustained repeated strikes. Overall, Gulf states recorded more than 1,800 missiles and drones targeting the UAE, upending travel and causing casualties.
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First responders or local police using drones

National League of Cities launches nationwide drone-as-first-responder program

On March 17, the National League of Cities teamed up with Brinc to launch a nationwide drone-as-first-responder program. The partnership offers cities a blueprint for integrating drones into 911 response operations. In the program, Brinc acts as the exclusive provider and will offer technical guidance to local governments. Meanwhile, drones housed in automated stations can launch within seconds and provide live video, two-way communication, and real-time data before responders arrive. Clarence E. Anthony said the collaboration ensures members access to trusted information and leading technology for exploring these programs. Additionally, Brinc CEO Blake Resnick emphasized building reliable American-made drones to help first responders save lives while federal agencies push for domestically produced unmanned systems.
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U.S. Commercial Drone Services

New Jersey town launches first-ever food delivery drone service

On March 18, a New Jersey town launched the state’s first drone-powered food delivery service. The three-month pilot allows customers within a 2.5-mile radius of Wonder’s Green Brook location to choose drone delivery. Moreover, the option appears in the Grubhub app and comes at no extra cost. Wonder’s head of government affairs said the program represents the next step in customer innovation and marks the first such service in the Northeast. Meanwhile, deliveries have already been completed in as little as four minutes, and the company expects to handle about four drone orders per hour during peak times. Drone delivery appears in the app only from 10:30 AM until sunset, and on-site crews ensure orders are packaged correctly while flights follow pre-approved paths to minimize noise. Additionally, Wonder and Grubhub will collect data during the test and may expand the program to other cities if it proves successful.
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