The success of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) by the US Military in both Afghanistan and Iraq has been impressive. Unmanned aerial vehicles such as the Global Hawk and Predator have produced fantastic results. These aircraft can fire weapons and provide still and video images, often in real-time, to ground military commanders. Even some Air Force Generals have publicly remarked that the US military are likely developing the last aircraft to be flown by live human pilots. On the military side, fighters, bombers and even rescue aircraft can be flown by remote control with obvious safety advantages. The success of these aerial vehicles has not escaped the attention of domestic law enforcement and many agencies see many potential benefits.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for Local Law Enforcement

The applications for an unmanned aerial vehicle for law enforcement are numerous and varied. These vehicles could perform directed patrols, armed with cameras monitored and flown by officers on the ground. Searches for missing persons or suspects could be conducted using heat seeking devices just as they are done today by airplanes and helicopters flown by human pilots. During a hostage situation, an unmanned aerial vehicle could hover near windows and provide real-time intelligence and data to ground officers. In a potential nuclear, chemical or biological incident, an unmanned aerial vehicle could be flown into the potential hot zone and if properly equipped, take air samples without risking the safety of any pilot. Since there is no pilot fatigue factor, no personal necessity breaks, unmanned aerial vehicles seem like an attractive alternative to airplanes and helicopters.

Just a few years ago, the only manufacturers building unmanned aerial systems were large corporations such as Northrop-Grumman and Boeing. However, in the last few years, literally hundreds of manufacturers now produce unmanned aerial systems ranging from hand held models to large turbine engine aircraft. If you add the introduction of very small digital cameras and video cameras, you can have a small and powerful tool. Some law enforcement agencies actually purchased some devices for use. Then the FAA stepped in and virtually grounded all airborne law enforcement unmanned aircraft.