Two vibrant orange autonomous sail drones are currently floating on Lake Erie as part of a novel initiative by the U.S. Coast Guard. Launched in May, these drones mark the first deployment in the Great Lakes region and are outfitted with advanced 360-degree cameras. Their primary functions, as stated by the U.S. Coast Guard, include aiding in search and rescue operations, responding to environmental spills, and supporting law enforcement activities.
The live camera feeds from the drones are continuously monitored by U.S. Coast Guard personnel, who have the ability to manually adjust the drones as needed. Notably, the footage captured is not recorded, emphasizing the drones’ purpose for situational awareness rather than surveillance, according to Lt. Junior Grade Samuel Rodriguez Garcia from the U.S. Coast Guard.
These drones may potentially be accessed by both U.S. and Canadian agencies, including law enforcement, following established protocols, Garcia confirmed. Enhancing border security and combating cross-border criminal activities are highlighted as key objectives of the drone program.
Despite the lack of direct involvement in the U.S. drone sail program, the Canadian Coast Guard emphasizes its close collaboration with its U.S. counterpart for maritime security initiatives, as noted by spokesperson Craig Macartney. Both coast guards are integral parts of the Great Lakes marine security operation, working in conjunction with various government law enforcement agencies around the clock.
Operating exclusively within U.S. waters in the Great Lakes, the sail drones are equipped with collision avoidance technology to steer clear of vessels. Garcia advises boaters to maintain a safe distance of approximately 100 meters from the drones. Furthermore, the deployment of these drones is seasonal, with retrieval taking place once ice formation begins on the water.