In this episode of Digitel Talk, host Ian Ginn speaks with Hans Similon, General Manager of Citymesh Safety Drone, about the world’s first nationwide drone network designed to support emergency services. Hans shares how Citymesh deploys drones-in-a-box across Belgium, ready to take off within 90 seconds to assist fire brigades and police with real-time HD and thermal imaging.Key highlights:World-first innovation: 70 drones deployed nationwide, controlled via 4G/5G with dual-modem redundancy.Impact on emergency response: Scaling interventions up or down based on live aerial insights.Safety measures: BVLOS operations, automated return-to-home, and parachute deployment for risk mitigation.Connectivity automation: Role of Inmanta in managing private and public networks for reliability.Future vision: Dual-use cases for national safety and security, and potential NATO-wide coverage.Episode sponsored by IFG Consulting Europe– Supporting telcos with tech strategy, digitisation and growth.Guest Bio:Hans Similon is a purpose-driven innovation leader with over two decades of experience at the intersection of technology, customer experience, and business development. Currently General Manager of the Safety Drone division at Citymesh, he leads pioneering work in “drone-in-a-box” solutions that provide real-time support to emergency services across Belgium.The Citymesh Safety Drone Network is more than a drone fleet—it is a strategic infrastructure layer that enhances public safety today, and national security tomorrow. It provides Belgium with a sovereign, scalable, and smart serial solution ready for any scenario.Podcast credits:Host: Ian GinnEditor: Francis WrightDesigner: Rebecca GinnProject manager: Ivana DuricSend us your feedbackSupport the showFollow Digitel Talk Want to be a guest on the show or sponsor a podcast? For all enquires contact [email protected] you liked this episode, please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave us a 5* review and rating, it really helps our channel.You can find us on LinkedIn @digitel-talk or on our website www.digiteltalk.com

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