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El Paso Police Aim to Upgrade Drone Fleet with U.S.-Made Models

El Paso Matters••Elida S. Perez
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The El Paso Police Department is seeking a $4.6 million grant to replace its fleet of Chinese-made drones with U.S.-manufactured models, following a federal ban on foreign drones. The grant application, approved unanimously by the City Council, is aimed at enhancing the department's Drone as First Responder program, which collaborates with emergency services to improve response times. If granted, the funding will be used to purchase 12 new drones and accessories, with a focus on advanced technology. The current fleet, which includes 22 DJI drones, will remain operational until the new equipment is acquired. This initiative is not only a response to the ban but part of the department's ongoing efforts to modernize its technology.

Key Details: • City Council approved the grant application on October 25, 2023. • The grant will fund 12 new drones and a five-year support agreement. • Current DJI drones were purchased for approximately $1.2 million. • The grant application is through Congressman Tony Gonzales' office. • The funding is for the 2027 fiscal year and does not require a city match.

grant emergency-response technology drone police-department

People & Organizations

El PasoEl Paso Police DepartmentEl Paso International AirportCity CouncilPeter PacillasTony GonzalesOmar MartinezHumberto Talamantes

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