MRCU undertakes drone training and calibration

The Mosquito Research and Control Unit (MRCU) is conducting drone training and calibration exercises this week as part of its continued efforts to responsibly integrate emerging technology into mosquito control operations.

This milestone follows several years of preparation, testing and planning. During that time, MRCU has focused on developing pilot skills, fine tuning operational procedures and gradually rolling out the use of drones so that, over time, they can be safely and effectively incorporated into the Unit’s overall control strategy.

The use of drones will allow MRCU to better target areas that are difficult or impossible to access by ground teams or the mosquito control aircraft. As the Cayman Islands continue to develop, some mosquito breeding sites are becoming increasingly hard to reach using traditional methods. Drone technology provides an additional tool to address these challenges in a precise and efficient manner.

MRCU currently operates two types of drones. A smaller drone is used primarily for mapping and assessing areas, while a larger drone is designed for the application of mosquito control products in targeted locations.

Training this week is focused on both pilot proficiency and equipment calibration to ensure that any future operational use meets MRCU’s strict safety, accuracy and environmental standards.

To learn more about the MRCU drone programme, additional information is available on MRCU’s YouTube page.

Members of the media who are interested in observing the training in person will have an opportunity to do so on Wednesday, 7 January 2026.

Media enquiries and requests to attend should be directed to Kevin Watler at kevin.watler@gov.ky .

To learn more, visit the MRCU website and social media platforms.