DHS assessing TCOM aerostats for border security
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is evaluating a number of TCOM aerostat systems to assess their airborne persistent surveillance capabilities for US-Mexico border patrol operations.
TCOM has supplied 17M and 22M tactical class aerostats and 38M operational class aerostats to DHS for assessment in the Rio Grande Valley in Texas. The assets will be used to aid operators in detection and tracking efforts throughout the most highly trafficked areas along the US-Mexico border.
Each aerostat system carries a payload of advanced sensor equipment, the same type of sensor equipment that border patrol agents use elsewhere. The system can typically remain aloft for two weeks to one month at a time. With operational altitudes of up to 5,000ft, the aerostats can provide monitoring of thousands of square miles, providing actionable intelligence and contributing to border security.
Tactical and operational TCOM aerostat systems consist of an aerodynamic helium-filled balloon which typically carries radar, video and communications payloads aloft to altitudes ranging from 1,000ft-5,000ft. Payload data is then transmitted to a ground control station through a fiber optic tether providing secure and reliable transmission of high bandwidth data. The system operates round-the-clock, enabling border patrol forces to achieve total situational awareness and identify illegal activity with enough time to evaluate and intercept.
Ron Bendlin, president, TCOM, said: ‘TCOM's tactical aerostats are ideal for the geography in southwest Texas. The elevated perspective offers broader reaching surveillance than ground systems can provide, and the mobility of the aerostat system enables operators to quickly and easily relocate the system when needed.
‘TCOM has provided aerostat systems to support US and allied military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan for the past decade. Now, we're honored to be able to apply our proven expertise in support of border security efforts right here at home.’
More from Uncrewed Vehicles
-
![Ready for the race: Air separation drone swarms vs. air defence systems]()
Ready for the race: Air separation drone swarms vs. air defence systems
As the dynamics of aerial combat rapidly evolve, Chinese scientists have engineered a sophisticated air separation drone model that can fragment into up to six drones, each capable of executing distinct battlefield roles and challenging the efficacy of current anti-drone defences such as the UK’s Dragonfire laser system.
-
![Israel’s MALE UAVs ‘must adapt’ to Iranian-made air defences]()
Israel’s MALE UAVs ‘must adapt’ to Iranian-made air defences
Advancements in air defence technologies have begun to reshape aerial combat dynamics in the Middle East, as illustrated by recent events involving the Israeli Air Force and Hezbollah.
-
![Hundreds more UAS sent to Ukraine forces with thousands more on the way]()
Hundreds more UAS sent to Ukraine forces with thousands more on the way
Both sides of the Russia-Ukraine war have been using UAS for effective low-cost attacks, as well as impactful web and social media footage. Thousands more have now been committed to Ukrainian forces.
-
![AI and software companies selected for US Army Robotic Combat Vehicle subsystems]()
AI and software companies selected for US Army Robotic Combat Vehicle subsystems
The US Army has intentions to develop light, medium and heavy variants of the Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) as part of the branche’s Next Generation Combat Vehicle family.
-
![DroneShield to improve software of DroneSentry-X C-UAS system under new contract]()
DroneShield to improve software of DroneSentry-X C-UAS system under new contract
DroneSentry-X, a cross-vehicle compatible, automated 360° C-UAS detect and defeat device, can offer 360° awareness and protection using integrated sensors. According to its manufacturer, it is suitable for mobile operations, on-site surveillance and on-the-move missions.
