Wingcopter and Siemens Healthineers sign MoU on drone delivery in Africa

Wingcopter has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Siemens Healthineers Middle East, Southern & Eastern Africa to develop a drone delivery solution.

The integrated system will be used to transport laboratory diagnostics materials and other medical supplies in Africa. Using highly automated drone delivery and laboratory information systems which Siemens will be able to track and report results directly to the patients. 

Ole Maloy, managing director of Siemens Healthineers Middle East, Southern & Eastern Africa, said: “At Siemens Healthineers, we are committed to providing access to care for everyone. Our partnership with Wingcopter will look to bridge the existing gaps in healthcare infrastructure, providing equitable and affordable access to diagnostic testing and medical supplies.”  

The battery-powered drones, operated by Wingcopter, cover a range of 75km while maintaining the cold chain. Tom Plümmer, CEO and co-founder of Wingcopter, said: “We are convinced that we have found the perfect partner for our bold ambitions to improve and save the lives of millions of people on the African continent and beyond. Partnering with Siemens Healthineers will bring us a big step closer to the goal we are working tirelessly towards: to make a real social impact worldwide for those who need it most through fast, reliable and sustainable drone delivery networks in the sky.”

The exact time and place of the first deployment of drone-based lab sample deliveries will be announced in due time.