Drones, robots, and artificial intelligence took center stage at the Emergency Disaster Reduction and Rescue Expo (EDRR Expo) in Shanghai, showcasing how cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing disaster relief efforts.
Over 3,000 advanced pieces of equipment and technologies were displayed at the fourth Yangtze River Delta International EDRR Expo. Among the highlights were intelligent firefighting drones, AI-powered early warning systems, and quadruped firefighting robots that captivated attendees with their innovative capabilities.
Spanning approximately 60,000 square meters, this year’s expo, which runs from Tuesday to Thursday, attracted over 500 leading companies from nearly 20 countries and regions. These companies presented innovations across fields such as emergency rescue, smart security, and disaster prevention and reduction. Notably, 120 breakthrough innovations made their global or Asian debut at the event.
For the first time, the expo featured an aerial emergency rescue zone, focusing on the application of aviation equipment and intelligent drones in rescue operations. With the increasing frequency of geological disasters like earthquakes, floods, and mudslides, as well as extreme weather events, drones—especially vertical take-off and landing models—have become an essential part of the aerial emergency response system in the Chinese mainland.
One of the standout exhibits was Weflying’s ducted-fan, high-altitude tethered firefighting drone, the first of its kind in the world. Supported by eight fans, it functions like an aerial fire hydrant, capable of continuously spraying water to combat fires in high-rise buildings.
Another highlight was China Tower’s mobile super base station. This innovative station integrates a foldable command center, a hydraulic lifting tower, and a drone landing platform, allowing flexible configuration based on varying terrains and emergency requirements to optimize signal coverage.
Unitree Technology, a pioneer in robotic technology, showcased its quadruped robot designed for fire and rescue operations. Equipped with a panoramic camera for intelligent real-time image transmission, the robot can conduct search and rescue missions while navigating complex disaster environments. According to Unitree Technology, their quadruped robot has been widely adopted by fire departments across the Chinese mainland and has garnered interest from numerous overseas clients.
The expo also served as a hub for industrial collaboration and international partnerships, attracting exhibitors and visitors from countries and regions such as the United States, Germany, Brazil, Japan, and Singapore.
The event is jointly hosted by the emergency management departments of Shanghai and the provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui, along with the Council for the Promotion of International Trade Shanghai. The four regions have collaborated to establish an integrated emergency management mechanism in the Yangtze River Delta.
