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Border Patrol uses a variety of air sensors, including fixed sensor towers, tethered aerostats(blimps), and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) like the MQ-9 Predator B. These systems employ a combination of day/night cameras, radar, lidar, and infrared (IR) sensors to detect, track, and identify threats across the border. Data from these sensors is often fused and analyzed using technologies like artificial intelligence to provide real-time situational awareness for agents on the ground. 

Types of air sensor systems

• Fixed Tower Sensor Suites (IFT):
  • These resemble radio towers and provide remote surveillance from fixed locations.
  • They are equipped with day/night cameras, radar, and laser illuminators.
  • The systems can be monitored locally and share data with other tools like the Tracking, Sign-cutting, and Modeling (TSM) tool.
• Aerostats (Tethered Blimps):
  • These are large, tethered balloons that provide persistent surveillance.
  • They carry radar, infrared, and high-resolution cameras to monitor the ground below.
  • They are also equipped with radio repeaters to extend communication range for agents in poor reception areas.
• Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Drones:
  • This includes larger systems like the MQ-9 Predator B and smaller unmanned aerial systems (sUAS).
  • They are equipped with advanced sensor packages, including electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors and radar (such as the Northrup Grumman VADER and SeaVue maritime radar).
  • They are used for long-range surveillance, real-time data collection, and intelligence gathering.
• Fixed-Wing and Helicopters:
  • CBP also uses manned aircraft like the P3 Orion aircraft and helicopters, which are equipped with advanced sensory equipment for border patrol and surveillance. 

How the sensor data is usedSurveillance and Monitoring: The systems provide real-time video and other data to help monitor for illegal activity and track individuals.Situational Awareness: Data from the various sensors is integrated and analyzed to give agents a more complete picture of the border environment.Interdiction: The information collected helps agents to track and interdict illegal entries and other illicit activities.Data Analysis: Artificial intelligence is used to automatically identify objects in imagery, helping to process the large amount of data collected by the sensors.