The U.S. Air Force has developed capacities to halt unauthorized small unmanned aircraft systems as well as boost the safety and security of base personnel and resources.The service branch said Monday the 55th Security Forces Squadron now possesses a capacity to prevent sUAS platforms from flying within the airspace and boundaries of the Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska using multiple unique defense systems.
“Our mission is to ensure the safety and security of resources and personnel on base and this is just one method of keeping pace with an ever evolving threat,” said Lt. Col William Smith, commander of the 55th SFS.
“We want the public to be aware that if we feel a sUAS is posing a threat to military operations or flight safety, either intentionally or unintentionally, we have an obligation to respond accordingly,” said Smith.
Current base policies prohibit the recreational and hobby use of sUAS systems within the main base, the Rising View housing areas, the Capehart Chapel, the Ehrling Bergquist Clinic and the Base Lake, the report noted.
UAS users may request permission from the Federal Aviation Administration to operate commercial sUAS platforms within Offutt AFB if they meet a number of requirements listed on the FAA website including the certification and registration of the drone unit.
