Summary
The UK has conducted its first test of an unmanned police helicopter, designed to join existing air support fleets. The new drone can fly for up to 12 hours and is intended to assist in searches for suspects and missing people while reducing emissions and noise. The test program is funded by the Home Office and involves collaboration with aviation authorities.
Key Facts
- The unmanned police helicopter is larger and has a greater range than current police drones.
- It can fly for up to 12 hours continuously.
- The aircraft uses the same high-powered infrared cameras as manned police helicopters.
- The drone is expected to be quieter and produce fewer emissions compared to traditional helicopters.
- Night-time test flights are happening over the Bristol Channel.
- The Home Office funds these tests, with oversight from the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services.
- Initial applications include searching for missing persons, with trial flights continuing through October.
- NPAS aims for a mixed fleet of manned and unmanned aircraft in future operations.
