The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) in conjunction with the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is preparing to test a TRON Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) for blood delivery. Designed by Quantum Systems, the TRON UAV is specifically constructed to transport blood products. The secure, temperature-controlled cargo unit holds up to 4 units of blood and can fly at speeds up to 160 km/hr (almost 100 miles/hr). With a range of 100 km (62 miles), the TRON UAVs will be able to help rural patients receive O-negative blood, deliver samples of the patients’ blood for cross-matching, and return with compatible blood. The project is awaiting final approval from the South African Civil Aviation Authority and has the potential to help millions of South Africans living in rural areas have access to blood products and other medical supplies. Earlier this year, Zipline drones, which have been delivering blood in Rwanda since 2016, started delivering blood products in Ghana as well.
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