Washington, D.C. – 25 JUL 2013 – Congressmen Henry Cuellar (D-TX) and Howard P. “Buck” McKeon (R-CA), Chairmen of the Congressional Unmanned Systems Caucus, welcomed representatives from the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Air and Marine (CBP-OAM) for a briefing on their current use of unmanned systems in support of border security and DHS’ Privacy and Civil Liberties UAS Working Group.  The event was held on July 10^th and was open to Members of Congress and their staff.

The briefing focused on the role and mission of CBP’s unmanned systems operation, goals and objectives of the DHS working group, and the challenges faced by both agencies with their respective missions.  The agency representatives discussed the details and current operating parameters of CBP unmanned systems as well as typical mission sets, unique capabilities, and system limitations.  The DHS representatives also discussed the integration of the working group in determining agency best practice policy for unmanned systems.

“Unmanned systems are a force-multiplier for our federal, state, and local law enforcement as they provide real-time intelligence and information to help detect, disrupt and dismantle unlawful activity along our borders.  CBP’s program has proven to be a significant resource in securing our nation’s international borders, as well as supporting the vital missions of other government agencies,” said Congressman Cuellar (D-TX).

Congressman McKeon stated: “As the FAA works to open the National Airspace for Unmanned Systems, it is important to gain perspective on how this technology can bring unparalleled capability to both public and private uses.  It is also essential to balance the discussion of increased capability with responsible use to ensure this technology is properly used.”

The Congressional Unmanned Systems Caucus was created to educate the members of Congress and the public on the strategic, tactical, and scientific value of unmanned systems.  It is important to acknowledge their overwhelming value and recognize the urgent need to rapidly develop and deploy more of these systems in support of ongoing civil, military, and law enforcement operations.  The members of the bipartisan caucus are committed to the growth and expansion of these systems. More information is available at http://unmannedsystemscaucus.mckeon.house.gov/