The UK is making a bold investment in the future of emergency response.

With a newly announced government package of over £20 million to accelerate advanced air mobility (AAM)—including DEMS operations, such as medical drones and air ambulance integration—the UK has signaled a clear ambition: to lead Europe in deploying drones for lifesaving public services. In a recent letter from the Department for Transport and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology to the CAA, ministers called for longer operational authorisations, faster NHS integration, and more support for real-world emergency drone services.

Project Lifeline reflects the UK’s growing momentum around advanced air mobility and drone-based emergency services. Its mission aligns closely with the ambitions outlined in the new funding programme and benefits from the same forward-leaning regulatory environment. The project is led by a coalition of leading healthcare, aviation, and technology organisations: Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex, Everdrone, NATS, Gatwick Airport, and Altitude Angel.

Project Lifeline is designed to test, validate, and pave the way for autonomous drone operations in emergency medical services. The goal is faster access to defibrillators and on-scene support in time-critical incidents.

This investment marks more than a funding injection—it represents a fundamental shift in how public and private sectors collaborate to strengthen healthcare systems. By combining real-world deployments, regulatory innovation, and cross-sector partnerships, Project Lifeline is showing what’s possible when ambition meets action.

For Everdrone, this is an opportunity to support UK emergency services with tested technology and practical insights—and to help set the standard for future drone-based EMS systems across Europe.