KDDI and KDDI SmartDrone will conduct a feasibility study on deploying AI-powered drones in Vietnam and the Philippines to support disaster prevention and infrastructure inspection.
The project has received support under a Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) programme that subsidises Japanese companies developing infrastructure and digital solutions in emerging markets.
The study will evaluate the use of AI drones for patrolling and inspecting infrastructure assets, as well as enhancing disaster preparedness and response. It will assess key technical and operational requirements, including market conditions, civil aviation regulations, and communications infrastructure in both countries.
Based on the findings, KDDI and KDDI SmartDrone will evaluate the commercial viability of launching full-scale AI drone services in Vietnam and the Philippines, with the objective of improving infrastructure maintenance efficiency and strengthening disaster management capabilities.
