CYBERSECURITY REVIEW8 JUL - DEC - 2019or the last couple of years, much of the focus by federal agencies on Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) has been on countering the threat posed by these systems. The recent attack on two Saudi Aramco refineries clearly demonstrated the effective use of sUAS for nefarious purposes by state and non-state actors. Often overlooked though is the valuable use of sUAS to support law enforcement and security operations in the public and private sector. The systems provide a great opportunity for organizations wishing to provide an additional tool to their response capabilities. Their use also has challenges and risks.For law enforcement agencies, sUAS can be useful in a variety of situations. First off, they provide an aerial capability for police departments who cannot afford manned aviation assets. Rotary and fixed-wing can be very expensive to procure and operate. A sUAS is perfect for a small department with a limited budget. They can be used to document outdoor crime scenes or accident sites, especially those crime scenes or accident sites that may cover a large area. The birds-eye view of a sUAS can provide a different perspective that can aid investigators to locate evidence that might not normally be visible or overlooked from a ground-level view. The small size and more quiet nature of sUAS make them a good choice for surveillance activities where large aviation assets would easily be detected. If equipped with infrared or thermal capabilities, they provide a day or nighttime capability to conduct surveillance. Law Enforcement and Security Use of Small Unmanned Aerial Systems: Opportunities and ChallengesBy Joseph Rector, Deputy Director, United States Air ForceFJoseph RectorIn My Opinion
< Page 7 | Page 9 >