In response to the recent surge of unidentified aerial activities over New York and New Jersey, the New York Police Department (NYPD) has revealed its readiness to deploy its fleet of over 109 drones.
This fleet is part of a broader strategy to enhance security and surveillance in the region.
According to The New York Post, the Joint Terrorism Task Force is currently investigating these mysterious aerial incursions. Carlos Nieves, an NYPD official, confirmed the ongoing investigation, stating, "We have NYPD detectives as well as FBI agents and state officials and theyre on it." However, he declined to provide further details about the investigation, directing reporters to the FBI, which has yet to comment on the matter.
The NYPD's drone fleet is operated by approximately 60 police officers, many of whom hold FAA licenses. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been an integral part of the NYPD's 'Drone as First Responder' pilot program. This initiative deploys drones in response to 911 calls in five precincts, utilizing a model known as the Skydio X10.
While the NYPD has not confirmed whether these drones possess weapon capabilities, the manufacturer's website describes them as "combat-ready." The website further elaborates, "Move with speed and efficiency when you choose UAS that are... adapted to meet defense requirements. Observe individuals, vehicles, or suspicious objects at 1km range to accurately identify hostile intent." The Skydio X10 model also boasts night-vision capabilities and a platform that allows for field attachments.
The 'Drone as First Responder' program operates in Brooklyn's 75th, 67th, and 71st precincts, the 48th Precinct in the Bronx, and the Central Park Precinct. The latter precinct, which experienced a crime surge last summer and has numerous blind spots due to a lack of cameras, has found the drones particularly useful.
These drones have proven invaluable in various situations, from tracking suspects on the run to locating missing or endangered children. Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry recounted a recent incident where a drone was deployed to aid a 4-year-old girl hanging precariously from a fourth-floor window in the Bronx. "They launched their Skydio X10 drones to that building," Daughtry said. The drone operator then alerted the police officers via radio, urging them to hurry to the scene.
Despite their advanced capabilities, the NYPD has confirmed that these drones do not contain facial recognition technology. The department's drone program, which began in 2018 with 14 drones, has since grown significantly, demonstrating the NYPD's commitment to leveraging technology in its mission to maintain public safety.
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