AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced Wednesday it would be the first law enforcement agency in the U.S. to use a new technology aimed at detecting and responding to drones posing a potential threat.
DPS said the Airborne Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems (ACUS) was a “cutting-edge technology mounted on helicopters” to help ensure public safety and protect emergency operations.
“This significant advancement marks a major milestone in the future of aerial safety and threat mitigation, enhancing DPS’ ability to protect both its own personnel and the public during high-risk missions such as disaster response, border operations and criminal patrol flights,” the department said.
During the fatal flash flooding in Kerr County in July, a rescue helicopter was taken out of commission after being hit by a private drone flying in the area.
Stacy Holland, chief pilot of DPS’ Aircraft Operations Division, said integrating ACUS into the aviation fleet allows for the quick detection of hostile or unauthorized drones.
“As drone use continues to evolve and expand across the country, so does the potential for these devices to be misused in ways that threaten public safety and law enforcement operations,” Holland said.
Holland said the new technology would allow DPS to protect its aircrews, ground personnel and community.
According to DPS, only one DPS helicopter has the ACUS currently installed.
“This new system is strictly for detection and situational awareness purposes, and no direct enforcement or interdiction actions will be taken from the helicopter,” DPS said. “Instead, it provides pilots with crucial information to maintain safety and awareness in the skies.”
According to the department, the ACUS provides the precise geolocation of the drone and its operator.
“By integrating this technology into its operations, DPS is taking a major step forward in ensuring the safety of aircrews, first responders and the communities we serve,” DPS said.
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