Incheon Port Authority (IPA) presents Korea’s first unmanned drone patrol system for port security—an innovative, scalable solution that redefines maritime safety through autonomous technology. The system conducts 12 automated patrols daily, replacing labor-intensive surveillance with precision-driven drones equipped with Infrared sensors, GPS/IMU, and AI-powered obstacle avoidance.
Installed at Incheon Port Security headquarters, smart drone stations enable fully automated takeoff, charging, and diagnostics without human intervention. In the event of an anomaly or emergency, the drone immediately departs from the station, activates emergency protocols, and transmits real-time images to the control center. This allows for an initial response within 10 seconds to anywhere in Incheon’s inner port, dramatically reducing the risk of an accident escalation.
The project addresses key operational gaps in traditional port security, such as nighttime visibility, delayed responses, and personnel exposure to high-risk zones. Beyond safety, the system contributes to ESG goals by reducing manual night shifts, and creating high-value tech-based jobs for local youth.
All flight and event data is archived in a centralized platform. AI uses automatic object recognition so that humans don’t have to monitor every part of the video. This makes it easy to capture smugglers crossing security fences or sneaking out of ships with a wide aerial view. The system aligns with SDGs 3, 8, 9, 11, and 16 by improving worker safety, fostering innovation, and safety infrastructure.
IPA demonstrated strong leadership by leveraging Korea’s national procurement platform, collaborating with drone tech firms and public agencies to ensure interoperability, scalability, and regulatory compliance. This project offers measurable impact, proven feasibility, and global transferability as a smart port benchmark.
Through bold vision and technological excellence, IPA’s drone patrol system not only secures the port—it sets a new global standard for sustainable, data-driven maritime security.