U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) unmanned aircraft system (UAS) Predator B returned to San Angelo Regional Airport for a 14-week deployment on Jan 17.
The first UAS deployment at a civilian airport occurred in Jan. and Feb. 2016 for a four-week feasibility test at San Angelo. AMO said it is returning to San Angelo for its weather conditions, centralized location, and the existence of a current AMO operating location.
AMO crews intend to conduct border security missions along the Texas border.
CBO said it uses UAS to increase domain awareness in land and maritime environments. During UAS operations, AMO utilizes the latest systems technology and real-time networked data dissemination and exploitation to coordinate response operations with law enforcement personnel for threats at U.S. border regions and approaches.
Typical UAS flights occur above 18,000 feet using instrument flight rules, while remaining in constant communication with air traffic control. AMO said it will operate the UAS in accordance with an approved Federal Aviation Administration certificate of authorization.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of the nation’s borders at and between the official ports of entry.