Dryad Networks, a leader in ultra early wildfire detection and forest monitoring, has announced a strategic partnership with Kinéis, a French satellite operator and global connectivity provider for the Internet of Things (IoT). This collaboration will integrate Kinéis's direct to satellite capabilities into Dryad's next generation Silvanet wildfire sensors, opening up groundbreaking new deployment possibilities.
Dryad's solar powered gas sensors, equipped with AI, monitor and detect early signs of wildfires by analysing air quality and identifying gas patterns indicative of fires. When integrated with Kinéis' satellite constellation, this network will overcome terrestrial limitations, ensuring near real time global connectivity.
This synergy enables the early detection of wildfires even in remote areas without terrestrial network coverage, sending critical alerts to authorities via Kinéis' 25 satellites, thus greatly enhancing emergency response capabilities and aiding in the preservation of natural areas and protection of critical infrastructure.
Power line and rail companies face wildfire risks due to their linear assets spanning vast, remote areas. Previously, deploying comprehensive sensor coverage in these scenarios could be challenging due to limitations in terrestrial network coverage. Dryad’s integration of Kineis's satellite technology addresses this challenge, enabling a simplified and cost efficient direct sensor to satellite communication for unparalleled wildfire detection and prevention along critical corridors.
In particular, installations for linear infrastructure such as powerlines or railways, or in difficult terrain such as mountainous regions will benefit from direct to satellite connectivity. With a significantly simplified installation, Silvanet wildfire sensors will become even more cost effective. Direct to satellite connectivity ensures continuous, reliable detection in remote areas, crucial for wildfire mitigation efforts.
When deployed in combination with the Silvanet Lorawan Mesh Gateways, which provide additional capabilities, Kinéis’ space IoT connectivity will guarantee uninterrupted service even if terrestrial connectivity is disrupted or sensors are placed outside of the range of gateways. The two companies aim to deploy hundreds of thousands of these IoT terminals worldwide over the next three years.
‘We are excited to collaborate with Kinéis, as this partnership not only broadens our technological capabilities but also aligns with our mission to provide comprehensive wildfire protection,’ said Carsten Brinkschulte, CEO of Dryad Networks. ‘Integrating Kinéis's satellite technology with our Silvanet sensors adds a vital layer to our detection ecosystem, especially for linear infrastructure, while reinforcing our commitment to the Lorawan mesh networks.’
‘Dryad Networks is at the forefront of ultra early fire detection, making them the ideal partner for this expansion,’ added Alexandre Tisserant, CEO of Kinéis. ‘By combining our satellite capabilities with Dryad’s innovative sensors, we are creating a truly global, adaptable solution to fight the growing threat of wildfires all over the world.’
This French-German partnership underscores the global drive for advanced wildfire prevention.