Direct Remote Identification

​Direct Remote Identification (DRI) and Network Remote Identification (NRI) of drones serve to ensure the safe and transparent operation of drones for the safety of manned and unmanned aerial vehicles. The system's purpose is to ensure the electronic identification of unmanned aerial vehicles, qualifying cooperative and non-cooperative drones, and enabling the continuous tracking of relevant flight data of drones for other drone operators or authorities, thereby enhancing aviation safety. In the European Union, Regulation 2019/945 requires that all drones below 120 meters in open and special categories have remote identification functionality.

​​To ensure the accountability of operators (maintainers), it is necessary to enact and implement legislation (both for safety and data protection) that adequately addresses security risks. In the European Union, the Commission's Implementing Regulation 2019/947 sets out the rules for the registration of drone operators (Article 14.5) and the affixing of registration numbers on drones (Article 14(7)).
The DRI direct remote identification method allows the identification data transmitted by the drone, such as the operator's identifier and the drone's location, to be detected by a nearby receiver (e.g., a smartphone). This method does not require an internet connection and is suitable for local data transmission.

​​In contrast, NRI is used in airspace where global coverage is provided and a continuous internet connection is available, enabling the central registration, tracking, and evaluation of drones based on the received data. 
The drone operator (remote pilot) performing drone operations must be aware of the RID/NID identification requirements at a basic level and comply with the regulatory requirements applicable to their operation. Based on this, the drone operator must equip the drone with an RID/NID identification device, which can be done through factory installation (the drone is already equipped with RID capability at the time of purchase) or firmware update (if the previously purchased drone is capable of accessing this function).

​​If neither of the above conditions is possible, then a modular transmitter must be purchased and attached or installed on the drone. The registration of drone operators is mandatory, and the drone must transmit its identifier using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communication protocol. This identification contributes to the accountability of pilots and the prevention of criminal activities if necessary. The DRI function allows the public and authorities to "digitally identify" the operator's registration number and the drone's registration number using a common mobile device, such as a smartphone, for nearby drones. This direct and simple method ensures the identification of drone operators, increases pilot accountability, facilitates the identification of malicious non-cooperative drone users, and enables timely and professional intervention by authorities.