The Brumbies sent up a hexacopter - an unmanned remote control aircraft - at training this week, instantly beaming video to coaches to allow them to analyse on-field formations and structure.

It's believed to be the first time any Australian team from any sporting code has used the aerial technology as part of a training strategy.

While cross-town rivals the Canberra Raiders were using Elevation Training Masks to get ready for the NRL season, the Brumbies were investing in a different approach to find a winning edge.

The drone - which can get as high as 120 metres - is being trialled as an addition to the Brumbies' review sessions to give players a better understanding of where they need to be on the field and how they can improve.

The initial video had to be from more than 30 metres away from the players, but coach Stephen Larkham says the technology can be a valuable tool to give the Brumbies an edge over their rivals.

''You can get right over the top of a scrum and you can look at running lines in the back line,'' Larkham said.

''It's only experimental at this stage, but you get good video from it and we'll see where we can get to.

''It's a full-on production, you need an aviation licence, you need a radio which links up with the aviation channels … you need approval to fly it.

''It's the same bird's-eye view that Fox Sports get at games and you can certainly pick up things off the ball.''

Fox Sports have used a similar device to broadcast cricket games and give viewers a different perspective. But the Brumbies believe it would allow them to fine-tune areas of their game that have gone unnoticed in the past.

White Knight Unmanned Aerial System general manager Brett White came to the Brumbies with the idea to add a new dimension to their video review system.

White was at training with the team on Tuesday and worked with Brumbies performance analyst Warrick Harrington.

''You get a full scope of the training field from above, we're leading the way with it which is good,'' Harrington said.

''You can optimise the strength of your scrum and maul, you can see the angles at engagement and where people's hips are.

''It's easily transportable, it works well and it gives you a perspective on the game that we haven't been able to have before.

''Things like the defensive line and the back three … where they're standing. The club has opened up pathways to developing coaching and expanding performance … hopefully it pays off.''

The Brumbies play the Wellington Hurricanes in New Zealand on Friday night.