Amid reports of unexplained drone activity across the nation, including in Oklahoma, Governor Kevin Stitt has directed the state to implement measures aimed at monitoring unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).
Mysterious drone sightings in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and other East Coast states have led several state and federal to call for answers about the flying objects. Some of these crafts have even been spotted near military installations.
On Monday, Stitt said that the state will begin procuring mobile UAS detection systems to assist law enforcement in tracking drone operations near critical infrastructure.
“Drones and unmanned aerial systems are an exciting new industry here in Oklahoma,” said Gov. Stitt. “This technology is new, and because of that, we don’t have all the measures in place to ensure Oklahomans are protected from those who would use this technology to harm others. That’s why I’ve instructed Commissioner Tipton to invest in UAS detection systems. This will ensure that drones can operate safely while law enforcement can keep Oklahomans safe.”
The detection systems will enable law enforcement to identify and monitor drones without violating federal regulations, which classify drones as aircraft and prohibit disabling or destroying them.
Tim Tipton, Oklahoma’s Commissioner of Public Safety, acknowledged the growing unease surrounding drone activity.
“The activity happening in New Jersey and across the country is unsettling. While we’ve only had a few reports of drone activity in Oklahoma, we want to be ready in case the need arises,” he said.
Oklahoma’s drone industry has been a growing sector, with applications ranging from agriculture to infrastructure inspection to news gathering. However, the use of drones near sensitive sites such as airports and power plants has raised questions about security.
The state’s plan to deploy detection systems is aimed at addressing these concerns while supporting lawful uses of the technology.
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Mysterious drone sightings in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and other East Coast states have led several state and federal to call for answers about the flying objects. Some of these crafts have even been spotted near military installations.
On Monday, Stitt said that the state will begin procuring mobile UAS detection systems to assist law enforcement in tracking drone operations near critical infrastructure.
“Drones and unmanned aerial systems are an exciting new industry here in Oklahoma,” said Gov. Stitt. “This technology is new, and because of that, we don’t have all the measures in place to ensure Oklahomans are protected from those who would use this technology to harm others. That’s why I’ve instructed Commissioner Tipton to invest in UAS detection systems. This will ensure that drones can operate safely while law enforcement can keep Oklahomans safe.”
The detection systems will enable law enforcement to identify and monitor drones without violating federal regulations, which classify drones as aircraft and prohibit disabling or destroying them.
Tim Tipton, Oklahoma’s Commissioner of Public Safety, acknowledged the growing unease surrounding drone activity.
“The activity happening in New Jersey and across the country is unsettling. While we’ve only had a few reports of drone activity in Oklahoma, we want to be ready in case the need arises,” he said.
Oklahoma’s drone industry has been a growing sector, with applications ranging from agriculture to infrastructure inspection to news gathering. However, the use of drones near sensitive sites such as airports and power plants has raised questions about security.
The state’s plan to deploy detection systems is aimed at addressing these concerns while supporting lawful uses of the technology.
Gov. Stitt Addresses Unexplained Drone Activity; Announces Plan To Deploy Detection Systems
Governor Kevin Stitt announced Oklahoma will implement UAS detection systems in response to mysterious drone activity, intending to enhance public safety near critical infrastructure amid growing national concerns.
