The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) and the University of North Dakota (UND) have entered a three-year cooperative research and development agreement designed to experiment with potential uses of unmanned aerial technology, as well as develop mitigation measures to combat possible misuse.
“This mission critical research will facilitate a better understanding of both capabilities and vulnerabilities of unmanned aerial technology as well as spur the development of countermeasures to potential threats based upon their use,” said DHS Under Secretary for S&T Dr. Reginald Brothers. “It is this kind of collaborative research that ultimately informs our law enforcement and policymakers.”
The initiative will examine the homeland security implications of commercial operations of unmanned aerial technology, including potential benefits and security challenges. Experimental research allows for the development of new training methods and best practices in addressing the unmanned aerial technology threat.
The research will allow for the investigation and analysis of the current policies, procedures, and regulations that have been set forth by state and local jurisdictions.
