Using Unmanned Aerial Systems Within the Homeland: Security Game-Changer?

Unmanned aerial systems, commonly known as drones, have been a game-changer for our men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. The systems have provided our troops with much-needed eyes in the skies and have taken the fight to the enemy, eliminating some of the most dangerous al-Qaeda terrorists. Drones have also increased our capabilities to secure our borders and aid our first responders. U.S. Customs and Border Protection began first looking at these drones back in 2004. Now CBP owns 10 UAS aircraft. These systems have been used to surveil drug smuggler tunnels, video dams, bridges, levees, riverbeds at risk of flooding, and assist with the deployment of National Guard resources responding to local flooding. CBP has also flown missions in support of the Border Patrol, Texas Rangers, U.S. Forest Service, FBI, and others. The systems have become a force multiplier for military operations and for border security. However, we are on the edge of a new horizon: Using unmanned aerial systems within the homeland.