Ostrava, March 9, 2026 – NOVÁ HUŤ has begun using a modern drone system to protect its premises. This technology helps the security service monitor the extensive industrial complex more effectively and enhances the protection of property and the monitoring of high-risk areas.

Drone monitoring is provided as a service by the specialized security company CENTR GROUP, which also operates the technology and holds the relevant permit from the Civil Aviation Authority (ÚCL). The drone pilots are employees of this security service, and operations are conducted in accordance with applicable laws.

A DJI Matrice series drone is used to monitor the site; it is equipped with a wide-angle camera, two telephoto cameras, and a thermal camera, enabling detailed surveillance even at night. “The system operates primarily in automatic mode. The drone takes off from the docking station at preset intervals, follows predefined flight paths, and then returns to the docking station. If necessary, the pilot can take control of the flight,” explains Ivo Chmelík, Director of Production and Technology, describing the drone’s operation.

The unmanned aerial vehicle primarily monitors the perimeter of the Nová Huť site. Every day, it completes several dozen flights, both day and night, and thanks to advanced analytics, it can automatically detect the movement of people and vehicles.

“Large industrial complexes pose a specific challenge in terms of security. The use of modern technologies, such as drone monitoring, allows us to respond more quickly and effectively than with standard physical inspections,” adds Petr Holuša, head of the property security department at Nová Huť.

The drone system proved its worth within the first few weeks of operation. During one of its regular flights, it helped locate individuals who were trespassing on the company’s premises at night and had disappeared from view after being detected by stationary cameras. The camera footage then significantly assisted the Czech Police in investigating this incident.

Personal data protection regulations (GDPR) are strictly adhered to during drone operations. Monitoring focuses primarily on areas where no employees are present, and video recordings are made only in cases where a security breach is detected.

In addition to security applications, the drone may also be used in the future for technical inspections of selected areas of the premises. However, all use of the drone must always comply with the permit issued by the Civil Aviation Authority and applicable privacy regulations.

Media contact:
NOVÁ HUT s.r.o.
Communications
Mgr. Ivo Šterba
spokesperson
M: +420 606 773 337
E: Ivo.Sterba@novahut.cz