CBP Aircraft Deployed To Support Hurricane Gustav Response

From Aero-News Network:

Predator-B UAV Used To Survey Damage US Customs and Border Protection has deployed the Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Predator B to support the response and recovery efforts of Hurricane Gustav. CBP launched its Predator B Tuesday morning to provide live streaming video to damage assessment personnel. Launched from Corpus Christi, TX, the Predator B was piloted by trained Air and Marine agents from Sierra Vista, AZ. The UAS surveyed levee conditions to detect damage and identify post-event trouble spots and supported search and rescue personnel by providing live streaming video to federal, state and local officials. "Timely and accurate information is critical to the men and women engaged in search and rescue operations on the ground," said Michael Kostelnik, assistant commissioner for CBP Air and Marine. "The UAS is providing real-time situational awareness to officials at all levels so they have the best information to identify needs and best determine how to prioritize the government's resources."

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