Washington and the drone industry: legislation, procurement, security reviews, and agency policy beyond the FAA.
In a significant development, researchers at NASA Ames Research Center are harnessing cutting-edge aviation technology to bolster the safety of Bay Area communities threatened by devastating wildfires. As the region braces for a potentially active wildfire season amid rising temperatures and drier conditions, NASA’s innovative drone project offers a glimmer of hope. Personal Connection Fuels…
Counter-Terrorism Expert Warns of ‘Moderately High’ Probability In a concerning development, ISIS extremists have circulated “detailed” manuals for adapting drones to attack the upcoming Paris Olympics, according to Matt Mooney, a counter-terrorism expert who spoke to The National. Mooney, a former US Department of Homeland Security official now with the Recorded Future threat intelligence company
Lawmakers Seek to Balance Security and Civil Liberties A bipartisan group of House lawmakers introduced a bill on Tuesday that would extend the federal government’s authority to counter threats posed by drones while also safeguarding the rights of responsible drone users. The legislation, reportedly sponsored by Rep. Mark Green (R-Tenn.), chairman of the House Homeland…
In October 2018, the Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) launched the nation’s first Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, deploying drones to respond to 911 calls. Since then, the drones have flown nearly 20,000 missions, providing officers with critical intelligence before arriving on scene. While the department touts the program’s benefits, a WIRED investigation reveals…
Joby Positions Itself at the Forefront of Aviation Autonomy In a significant development for the future of air travel, Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE:JOBY) has announced the acquisition of the autonomy division of Xwing Inc., a leader in autonomous aviation technology. This strategic move positions Joby at the cutting edge of autonomous flight and complements its…
Procurement Notice Raises Concerns Over China’s Sale of Dual-Use Goods to Moscow A Chinese trade body sought to buy drone-jamming equipment for Russian buyers last month, highlighting the close ties between the two countries. This comes amid concerns in Europe and the US over China’s supply of dual-use technology to Moscow. The government-affiliated Guangdong Province…
How Drones and AI are Revolutionizing Landmine Detection Landmines and unexploded ordnance contaminate about a third of Ukraine, an area the size of Florida. This dangerous reality underscores the urgent need for innovative solutions. Enter Gabriel Steinberg and Jasper Baur, co-founders of the nonprofit Demining Research Community and the startup Safe Pro AI. In an…
Skydio X10D, the latest in autonomous drone technology, has achieved the highest Department of Defense (DoD) clearance, earning a spot on the Blue sUAS Cleared List. This significant milestone, announced by Skydio, highlights the X10D’s exceptional security and operational capabilities, simplifying procurement for government and defense entities. Leading the Way in Autonomous Flight Skydio, a…
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