Portuguese drone company Tekever wins Canada wildfire contract

Portuguese technology company Tekever has secured a new contract in Canada that will see its autonomous drone systems deployed to help detect and monitor wildfires in Alberta.

The development is seen as strengthening the firm’s international expansion and growing role in emergency response operations.

The agreement – with Canadian aviation operator Phoenix Heli-Flight – marks a new phase in a partnership that began in 2023 and will bring Tekever’s AR3 unmanned aerial system into frontline wildfire management missions in one of Canada’s most fire-prone regions.

The contract will combine Tekever’s long-endurance drones, specialist sensors and its Nova Maps software platform to provide real-time operational intelligence to authorities responsible for wildfire prevention, monitoring and response.

Alberta has faced several severe wildfire seasons in recent years, placing significant pressure on communities, critical infrastructure and emergency services. Tekever believes its technology can improve early detection of fire risks and provide continuous monitoring of rapidly evolving wildfire situations.

The company’s AR3 platform is designed to deliver real-time intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities across large areas, enabling emergency teams to make faster and better-informed decisions.

Paulo Ferro, Tekever’s Vice-President for Strategic Development, says the company intends to continue expanding its presence in Canada – supporting customers in defence, security, emergency response and environmental monitoring.

The deal also highlights the growing dual-use potential of Portuguese drone technology, with applications extending beyond wildfire detection to environmental protection, public safety and emergency response missions.

Tekever’s AR3 platform is already deployed in demanding maritime and land-based operations, where long-endurance surveillance and operational resilience are key requirements.

Source: Executive Digest

Natasha Donn

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.