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CBP deploys robot plane U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has added the MQ-9 Predator B Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) to its Air & Marine Fleet. The craft, built by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, will support air and marine crews and Border Patrol agents charged with securing the U.S. border. The CBP has already built up an impressive record as a user of similar systems, deploying them for 1,805 hours, in support of 3,603 arrests and the seizure of 11,000 pounds of marijuana. The Predator B offers improved detection and monitoring, greater endurance, a higher top speed (250 knots), a heftier payload, and an array of satellite and other communications equipment. At the time of announcement, it was due to begin operating this month from Libby Army Airfield in support of border security operations along the Arizona-Mexico border. |
