INTELLIGENCE/SURVEILLANCE/RECONNAISSANCEAerial photographic images and high-definition video of an area of operation provide a level of intelligence that will serve to improve the operational planning process greatly. During the execution of these plans, the R.A.P.T.R. effectively places the eye of the tactical operator overhead, and establishes the advantage of owning the high ground. The ability to see over a hill or a structure prior to a dangerous approach is invaluable. The helicopter, by transmitting a live video stream to personnel on the ground allows them to see dangers well in advance and to modify the tactical plan accordingly. SEARCH AND RESCUEUse of the drag and drop waypoint/flight path history features found in the ground station software, allows for precise grid control for searching large areas. The helicopter can effectively cover a much larger area in a shorter amount of time, all while reducing the manpower requirements historically required by search and rescue operations. The R.A.P.T.R.’s infrared camera systems allow searches to be effectively conducted at night, eliminating the need to call off searches during hours of darkness. IED Detection and ExploitationThe RAPTR serves EOD units by providing a watchful eye on the perimeter of an IED exploitation operation. Use of thermal and high definition image sensors will aid in the detection of waiting ambushes, counter surveillance or remote positions. Further, when rugged terrain hampers the mobility of ground robots, the vehicle may also function as a payload delivery system in order to facilitate the transport and release of explosive charges designed to defeat IEDs. Biological/Chemical Sensor DeploymentFirst responders and military personnel involved in biological, chemical, and other hazardous materials operations could benefit by the use of the RAPTR unmanned aerial system’s capability to deploy sensor and sampling payloads into hazardous chemical clouds or ground spills. Atmospheric sensors are typically very small. The RAPTR’s ability to carry up to 10 pound payloads, makes it a great choice for the remote deployment of multiple sensors simultaneously, thereby limiting personnel exposure. |
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TRAFFIC INVESTIGATION/STUDIESThe R.A.P.T.R. platform has enabled modern law enforcement agencies to quickly and effectively investigate and document fatality traffic collisions. Using the photogrammetry function of the system, a complete, high-resolution aerial image can be used to construct three-dimensional images of an accident scene to be used as evidence in the courtroom for criminal and civil proceedings. The geo-tagging feature allows for precise measurements to be obtained from the photographic data, which allows emergency responders to clear the roadway in a timelier manner and restore the safe flow of traffic. COMMUNICATION RELAYRadio communication relay is a concern for many law enforcement and military units. Due to terrain, weather and other factors communication signals between units is routinely compromised. By attaching a small repeater payload to the R.A.P.T.R., the range and quality of small unit radio communications is heightened. TAGGANT DELIVERYDeployment as a taggant delivery vehicle is also an area of interest and potential benefit to modern military special operations units. The R.A.P.T.R. system will stand up to the challenge of delivering taggant material and deploying it on target without putting operators at unnecessary risk. |
