Drones capture individuals attempting to cross the border

Published: Friday, July 18, 2025 at 10:29 pm

Drones to Bolster Border Security in Arizona

Cochise County, Arizona, is set to upgrade its border security with advanced drone technology, aiming to enhance its ability to track and apprehend individuals attempting to cross the U.S.-Mexico border. The local sheriff's department, which currently utilizes drones to survey the vast, rugged terrain, is partnering with Draganfly, a Canadian drone manufacturer, to deploy new hybrid-style aircraft. These drones, measuring nine feet wide, can travel up to 75 mph, and boast an extended flight time of nearly seven hours, a significant improvement over the current 30-minute battery life of existing drones.

The new drones are equipped with advanced features, including high-resolution cameras with facial recognition, thermal cameras for detecting body temperatures, and the capacity to deliver supplies. They are designed to withstand the sophisticated technology used by international criminal organizations. The drones will share real-time information with agencies within a 100-mile radius, providing a 10,000-foot aerial vantage point.

The upgrade is part of a broader effort to improve border security, with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) already utilizing drones for surveillance. While the Cato Institute has raised concerns about the effectiveness of drones in apprehending migrants, officials in Cochise County are optimistic that the new technology will significantly enhance their ability to secure the border, improve apprehension safety, and combat the challenges posed by cartels and migrant criminals. The goal is to streamline information flow, avoid data overload, and ultimately make the community safer. The new drones are expected to be fully operational by 2026.

BNN's Perspective:

The use of advanced drone technology for border security presents a complex issue. While the potential for improved efficiency and safety is undeniable, it's crucial to balance these benefits with concerns about privacy, cost-effectiveness, and the potential for misuse. A measured approach, with robust oversight and data privacy safeguards, is essential to ensure that this technology serves the public good.

Keywords: drones, border security, Cochise County, Arizona, Draganfly, U.S.-Mexico border, law enforcement, surveillance, technology, apprehension, cartels, migrant criminals, facial recognition, thermal cameras, CBP, unmanned aircraft

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