FDNY Explores Convergence of Robotics for Public Safety Operations

At DRONERESPONDERS conference, FDNY’s Mike Leo discusses integrating drones, ground robots, and other robotic systems to improve situational awareness

Public safety agencies are increasingly exploring how multiple robotic systems can work together during emergency response. At the DRONERESPONDERS National Public Safety UAS Conference in Williamsburg, Virginia on March 10, 2026, Mike Leo of the Fire Department of New York City (FDNY) outlined how combining data from drones, ground robots, and other robotic platforms can provide a more complete picture of complex incidents.

DRONERESPONDERS is a global non-profit program advancing public safety UAS, counter-UAS, and Advanced Air Mobility. The annual conference brings together first responders, government agencies, and industry to share lessons learned and operational best practices.

FDNY has been at the forefront of deploying drones and robotics.  Here, Leo framed the discussion around combining robotic solutions as an emerging field rather than a finalized solution. “This isn’t a presentation… it’s a start of a conversation,” he said.

The Convergence of Robotics

Leo described what he called the “convergence of robotics,” a concept focused on integrating data from multiple robotic systems into a single operational picture.

In many incidents, drones provide aerial views, ground robots can approach hazardous environments, and underwater systems may gather data in flooded or marine areas. When these platforms operate together, they can supply responders and incident commanders with a more comprehensive understanding of the situation.

The goal is to deliver this information quickly and clearly to the stakeholders responsible for managing the response.

Building a Robotics Team

Combining tools requires strategic coordination.  The FDNY has established a specialized robotics team designed to support operations involving drones and other robotic systems.

According to Leo, the team structure includes several defined roles:

• Officer: Serves as the team lead, interprets incoming data, and communicates findings to the incident commander assigned to monitoring the display systems.

• Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) / Operator: Controls the drone or robotic equipment.

• Visual Observer (VO) / Assistant: Supports the operator and ensures operational safety.

• Data Specialist: Manages data feeds, processing, and storage.

Additional operational support can include logistics units, planning and notification desks, and a robotics mobile command unit designed for long-duration incidents.

This structure helps ensure that incoming data can be interpreted quickly and delivered in a useful format to decision-makers during an emergency.

Recent Incidents Demonstrate Value

While convergence of robotics is still something of an evolving science, Leo highlighted several recent incidents where robotic systems helped responders gather critical information.

Bronx Building Collapse: In one case, a chimney collapsed along the side of a multi-story building in the Bronx. Drones allowed responders to capture detailed aerial imagery and close-up views of the damage without placing personnel in danger.

Thermal imaging and high-resolution aerial data helped responders evaluate structural risks and better understand the scope of the collapse.

Grand Central Steam Leak: Another incident involved a 24-inch steam main leak near Grand Central Station in New York City.

The situation posed significant hazards due to high heat and pressure. In this case, FDNY deployed both drones and a four-legged ground robot equipped with sensors. The robot, developed by Boston Dynamics, was able to approach the leak safely while collecting thermal and environmental data.

This information helped responders identify the precise source of the leak. With that data, repair crews were able to order the correct parts and allocate resources more efficiently, helping to limit disruption and reduce shutdown time.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

While robotic systems have already demonstrated their value, Leo emphasized that significant challenges remain.

Future progress will likely depend on several areas of improvement:

• Better data integration across aerial, ground, and other robotic systems

• Improved sensor integration to expand the types of information available during incidents

• Artificial intelligence tools to assist with data analysis

• Stronger communications systems, including command-and-control (C2) and voice integration

• Open architecture platforms that allow multiple technologies to work together

Leo also noted that many robotic systems remain relatively new and can still be difficult to operate in demanding environments.

Despite these challenges, public safety agencies continue to explore how robotics can enhance situational awareness and support faster decision-making during emergencies.

The convergence of robotic platforms, Leo suggested, represents an important step toward a future where responders can access a unified, data-driven view of complex incidents.