SOLOMON Islands police have turned to drone technology in the fight against transnational crime.
The increase in drug trafficking by yacht, small vessels and narco-boats has shown the need for new approaches to coastal and border surveillance and this includes drones.
To increase this capability in the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, Australian soldiers conducted training in Honiara this week.
The training focused on the use of drones in maritime surveillance, border monitoring, search and rescue, disaster response, and situational awareness in remote and difficult-to-access locations.
It follows a recent agreement between Solomon Islands and the United States on joint participation aboard US Coast Guard vessels for Customs and police activities.
Australian Defence Force troops used classroom instruction, mission planning, and hands-on flying activities to develop skills required for the RSIPF to employ drone technology in real-world policing and security environments.
Solomon Islands faces unique challenges in monitoring its vast sea borders and protecting natural resources.
Drone capability can support efforts to combat illegal activities such as drug trafficking, transnational crime, illegal fishing, and the movement of illegal goods.
