McConnell Air Force Base Expands Drone Program for Enhanced Operational Capabilities
McConnell Air Force Base has launched a drone program to enhance operational capabilities, integrating small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) into squadron operations. Led by Capt. Justin Lewis and Tech. Sgt. Bradly Hornberger, the program utilizes drones for tasks such as aircraft inspections and security monitoring, with future plans to incorporate AI for damage identification. This initiative aims to build a skilled cadre of Airmen while also exploring applications for local law enforcement and private users.
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McConnell Air Force Base has established a drone program to enhance operational capabilities, launched in late summer 2024. Led by Capt. Justin Lewis and Tech.
Sgt. Bradly Hornberger, the program integrates small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) into squadron operations, supported by the 22nd Maintenance Squadron and 22nd Security Forces Squadron. The drones, weighing under five pounds, feature obstacle avoidance and high-resolution cameras, enabling them to perform tasks such as aircraft inspections and security monitoring.
Future plans include leveraging AI for damage identification. Drones are employed in various roles, including perimeter sweeps and adversary simulations. Additionally, Explosive Ordnance Disposal is developing drone capabilities linked with the 184th Intelligence Wing. McConnell's drone program aims to build a trained cadre of Airmen and is becoming essential for day-to-day operations, while local law enforcement and private users are also exploring drone applications.
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