Highlights
- RocketDNA awarded multi-year deal for autonomous drone systems
- Gruyere Gold Mine to adopt xBot and SiteTube solutions
- Integrated technology set to enhance efficiency and planning
RocketDNA (ASX:RKT) has secured a multi-year agreement to deliver its autonomous xBot surveying system to the Gruyere Gold Mine, a joint venture between Gold Road Resources (ASX:GOR) and Gold Fields (JSE:GFI). The arrangement highlights the growing adoption of drone technology across the mining industry, where efficiency and precision are becoming central to operations.
With demand for advanced data solutions rising, the deployment of RocketDNA’s technology reflects broader trends in how resources companies leverage innovation. While RocketDNA is not part of ASX 200 companies, the mining sector remains a significant contributor to the index through other major players.
Integrated Drone Technology at Gruyere
The contract includes supply and servicing of the SurveyBot drone-in-a-box system, along with remote piloting support and access to the SiteTube visualisation platform. These systems enable regular automated drone flights, providing mining teams with secure data delivered through cloud-based platforms.
The xBot solution will be used for a range of operational tasks such as open pit surveys, blast planning, volumetric analysis, stockpile monitoring, and generating high-resolution visuals. Additionally, live-streaming capabilities will allow off-site teams to engage in real-time planning and decision-making.
Driving Efficiency and Remote Capabilities
By integrating autonomous drone services, Gruyere Gold Mine aims to improve data turnaround and streamline site operations. Faster delivery of accurate survey information supports better decision-making while reducing reliance on manual processes. The result is expected to be greater productivity, improved safety, and stronger oversight of large-scale mining activities.
RocketDNA’s xBot platform is built for autonomous operation, managed remotely by certified pilots, ensuring reliability and compliance with aviation standards. This approach enables mining companies to benefit from automation while maintaining strong governance and operational control.
Outlook for Mining Innovation
The adoption of advanced drone solutions at Gruyere underscores a broader movement within the resources industry to embrace automation. With large-scale operations requiring constant monitoring and detailed analysis, tools like RocketDNA’s SurveyBot are emerging as essential assets.
As the industry continues to evolve, partnerships such as this highlight how technology providers and mining companies are working together to enhance efficiency, strengthen safety measures, and unlock new levels of performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is RocketDNA’s role at the Gruyere Gold Mine?
RocketDNA is supplying its autonomous xBot surveying system, along with remote piloting and data visualisation services, to support mining operations at Gruyere. - How will the SurveyBot benefit the Gruyere Gold Mine?
The SurveyBot will provide automated surveys, real-time imagery, and cloud-based data access, helping teams improve efficiency and decision-making. - Why is drone technology becoming important in mining?
Drone systems reduce manual effort, improve safety, and deliver accurate data faster, making them vital tools for large-scale mining operations.