top of page

Border Security in the Age of Drones: Trump’s Strategy and the Role of Unmanned Systems

"Because of the gravity and emergency of this present danger and imminent threat, it is necessary for the Armed Forces to take all appropriate action to assist the Department of Homeland Security in obtaining full operational control of the southern border." - President Donald J. Trump, 1-20-2025
"Because of the gravity and emergency of this present danger and imminent threat, it is necessary for the Armed Forces to take all appropriate action to assist the Department of Homeland Security in obtaining full operational control of the southern border." - President Donald J. Trump, 1-20-2025

On January 20, 2025, President Donald J. Trump, the 47th President of the United States, reaffirmed his commitment to securing the U.S.-Mexico border by declaring a national emergency. This action addresses what the administration describes as an immediate and significant threat to national security. Central to this initiative is the deployment of advanced technologies, including drones, to enhance surveillance and enforcement.



Trump’s Border Vision: Enhanced Security Through Technology

President Trump’s executive orders introduce a comprehensive border security plan combining physical barriers, military personnel, and cutting-edge technology. Acting Secretary of Defense Robert Salesses described the initiative as an effort to establish complete operational control of the southern border by incorporating tactical drones into the security framework alongside ground forces.


Tactical unmanned aerial systems (UAS), such as the Army’s MQ-1 and the Air Force’s MQ-9 Reaper, are being considered to support on-the-ground personnel. These drones can provide real-time intelligence, monitor remote areas, and detect unauthorized crossings, giving field operators better information to respond effectively.



Galaxy Unmanned Systems: Supporting the Border Mission

Galaxy Unmanned Systems LLC is prepared to play a key role in these efforts with its advanced autonomous airships. These long-duration platforms combine intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities with counter-UAS technology, offering a versatile solution for monitoring the border.


Galaxy's systems can carry Counter-Drone payloads and cameras for illegal border crossing situational awareness.
Galaxy's systems can carry Counter-Drone payloads and cameras for illegal border crossing situational awareness.

"Galaxy has a proven, ready-to-deploy solution built on years of experience securing critical operations overseas. We’re ready to bring that same expertise home and play a vital role in protecting our borders," said Galaxy CEO Jason White.


The GC80-E4, Galaxy’s 80-foot airship, can carry over 500 pounds of surveillance equipment and operate continuously for up to 24 hours. Flying at altitudes ranging from 200 to 4,000 feet, the airship can scan large areas without obstruction. Modular payloads, such as radar, EO/IR sensors, RF detection systems, and cameras, make these airships adaptable for various border security tasks. Their long flight duration and high payload capacity provide a more cost-effective and flexible option compared to traditional drones and stationary aerostats.



CBP and Coast Guard Support: A Unified Effort

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. Coast Guard have expressed strong support for the use of innovative technologies to address border security challenges. Letters of endorsement from both agencies highlight the value of Galaxy’s airships in providing operational enhancements in difficult environments. This collaboration reinforces a unified strategy to combat unauthorized crossings, drug trafficking, and other illegal activities.



The Strategic Role of Drones in Border Security

Drones and airships are reshaping the approach to border security. These systems, equipped with advanced sensors and real-time data sharing, offer actionable insights for law enforcement and military teams.


Galaxy’s airships also serve as persistent communication hubs and platforms for smaller drones, enabling a scalable system for monitoring and response. This "mothership" model offers a flexible solution that meets the evolving needs of border operations.


'Constellation Concept' Macro-Swarming Mothership and Micro-Swarming sUAS Security operations
'Constellation Concept' Macro-Swarming Mothership and Micro-Swarming sUAS Security operations

Call to Action: Partnering with Galaxy Unmanned Systems

As the administration implements its border security plans, Galaxy Unmanned Systems LLC is ready to collaborate with federal agencies to provide its airship platforms. By integrating these advanced technologies, the government can improve surveillance and operational effectiveness along the U.S.-Mexico border.




Comments


bottom of page