The law enforcement landscape is rapidly evolving, with technological innovations such as autonomous drones playing a critical role. According to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), approximately 1,500 police departments across the United States currently operate drones. However, only about a dozen actively deploy them in response to 911 calls. Skydio, a leading drone manufacturer, hopes to change this narrative with their newly launched model, the X10.
“The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.” – Helen Keller.
The goal of Skydio’s X10, as stated by cofounder and CEO Adam Bry, is to integrate drones into public safety wherever they are beneficial. The X10 is designed for speed, compactness, and advanced capabilities. It can reach speeds up to 45 miles per hour and is small enough to fit into the trunk of a police car. Its infrared sensors enable it to track individuals and operate autonomously in the dark. Other features include payload bays for carrying accessories, a 65X zoom camera for detailed surveillance, and the potential to aid in mitigating high-speed chases.
Public Reception and Policy Implications
Introducing advanced capabilities could encourage the broader use of drones in law enforcement. However, this is happening while policies regarding their use are still being developed. Advocates for civil liberties express concerns about the absence of regulations to restrict the use of drones in sensitive contexts, such as protests or in combination with other forms of surveillance technology.
About ten years ago, Skydio began selling drones to outdoor athletes to capture videos of their activities. However, things changed in 2020 when the US military approved a few companies for off-the-shelf use, and Skydio was selected. Skydio now serves railway companies, utility corporations, and law enforcement agencies like the New York Police Department (NYPD).
The NYPD’s interest in drones has been subject to controversy. Civil liberties groups like the ACLU and the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project have raised concerns. The NYPD’s use of drones for monitoring large gatherings and its plans to increase drone deployment have sparked debates about privacy and surveillance.
A Closer Look at the X10
Skydio’s X10 drone is built for speed and compactness. It is equipped with infrared sensors that allow it to track individuals and operate independently in the dark. But beyond its physical attributes and capabilities, the X10 raises questions about privacy and civil liberties.
A 2021 analysis by Amnesty International revealed that surveillance cameras across New York City disproportionately threaten the civil liberties of people of color. Similarly, a joint report by the ACLU, the Electronic Frontier Foundation, and the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project argues that drones enable covert surveillance, posing a significant threat to citizens’ privacy.
Skydio recently announced its partnership with Axon, which provides police technology, including Tasers. As part of this partnership, video footage captured by Skydio drones will be integrated into Axon’s software used by police departments for incident response and evidence management. Skydio’s CEO clarified that the company has no plans to weaponize its drones, despite Axon’s suggestion to use Taser-mounted drones to stop mass shootings, which has sparked controversy.
In conclusion, while the X10 presents potential benefits in law enforcement, its deployment also comes with significant challenges and potential risks. As we move forward, our vision for public safety must incorporate a solid commitment to civil liberties and privacy rights.