The government has recognised the great potential of drones, unveiling Denmark’s very first drone strategy aimed at strengthening the bridge between companies and researchers.

Meanwhile, the Education and Research Ministry has set aside 30 million kroner for the establishment of new national drone research infrastructure at Aarhus University, Aalborg University and the University of Southern Denmark.

“Today, drone technology offers opportunities that few people had imagined just a couple of years ago, so it’s important that legislation, research and business follows along so we can transmute the knowledge to value,” said the education and research minister, Ulla Tørnæs.

“With a national drone strategy, the government wants to generate the basis for an ambitious and responsible use of drones in the future.”

The new strategy includes six aims and 23 specific initiatives and was incorporated in collaboration with the Transport and Building Ministry, which is working on new regulations regarding drone flying.

READ MORE: Drones carrying ladybirds to take on pests on organic fields

Keep droning on
The government has also supported HCA Airport near Odense to become an international drone testing and development hub.

“HCA Airport can now continue working on developing a testing centre of an international standard and help to drive the development of the drone sector in Denmark,” said Anker Boye, the mayor of Odense.

“As of today, there are over 2,000 employees in the robotics companies in Odense – and that same development can be established around drones. The potential may be even greater.”