First responders will test the use of drones to help sick or injured people this fall in an initiative that could see the remote-controlled devices added to emergency kits nationwide.
The trials in Kyushu will involve medics flying medicines, defibrillators and other medical supplies to places where airborne delivery will be faster than on land.
"Drones add more options for rescuers to reach patients," said project leader Yusuke Enjoji, an official in the Saga Prefectural Government.