DEMYSTIFYING REMOTELY PILOTED AIRCRAFT (RPA) SUPPORT FOR DOMESTIC OPERATIONS (DOMOPS)

The technological capabilities of Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs) are converging with the state’s needs for emergency response. The National Guard can utilize RPA’s to support Domestic Operations (DOMOPS). RPA’s, although not optimal for all conditions, are valuable assets and can provide enhanced support to operations. Through an understanding of the legal approval process and their operational capabilities and limitations, a state will be prepared to weigh the costs and benefits of RPA support to any operation. States will need to practice the way they operate in an emergency by including RPAs in future exercises, thereby by improving the level of understanding and confidence in these emerging capabilities. Planning and preparation are key to a state’s improved response options. Disasters are not planned, but responses to them are. RPAs warrant consideration for inclusion and response to DOMOPS.