2024 Presidential Election

Drones Enhance Cochise County Surveillance Efforts

The Cochise County Sheriff's Office has announced a new drone pilot program partnering with Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) to enhance surveillance and operations along Arizona's southern border.

The program is a component of the executive order "Unleashing American Drone Dominance," signed by President Donald Trump, which seeks to increase American leadership in unmanned aircraft systems for military and security.

It is well known that the Cochise County Sheriff's Office uses cutting-edge technology for border enforcement. President Trump and Vice President JD Vance have visited and praised the department's prior implementations of high-resolution camera networks, sensor-integrated mobile units, and ground surveillance radar systems.

"The Southern Border is one of America's most critical national security frontiers," said Captain Tim Williams. "Our organization has always been committed to leveraging the best tools available. With Draganfly as our drone partner, we're entering the next phase of smart border enforcement."

Williams stated that there will be no financial burden on taxpayers from the pilot program. Even though illegal migration has drastically decreased in recent months, the drones will assist deputies who have frequently come across illegal immigrants while patrolling local and state roadways.

The department will use a variety of Draganfly drone types as part of the pilot program:

  • AI-powered drones for missions requiring rapid reaction
  • Long-range fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles for prolonged border monitoring
  • Drones with thermal imaging capabilities for nighttime and search and rescue missions

The drones' secure data architecture and tough dependability make them ideal for mission-critical missions in challenging, isolated environments. Additionally, Draganfly's technologies work with TAK (Team Awareness Kit) networks and other current law enforcement equipment.

"We are honored to be working with Cochise County Sheriff's Office for this historic program," said Cameron Chell, CEO of Draganfly. "Their team represents some of the best of American law enforcement; innovation-focused, community-minded, and mission-ready."

The program positions Cochise County as a potential national model for technology-enabled border enforcement, building on the department's track record of operational excellence and technological innovation.

Draganfly Inc. develops drone solutions and systems, with products designed for adaptability and multi-mission capabilities across law enforcement and public safety operations.

Ericka Piñon

Ericka Piñon is a state and federal politics reporter for Cactus Politics and a Journalism and Mass Communication student at Arizona State University. With a focus in public relations, she aims to deliver balanced coverage grounded in solid sourcing.

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