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Good observations by both of you, but ABP develops and fabricates most of the equipment (and software) we use. Cochise County may be the original ass end of nowhere, but it is also the home of the Army Intelligence Center, Signal Command, and the Electronic Proving Grounds. There is a lot of local talent here.

The real key is the ground sensors; they tell us which areas are active. The UAVs don't launch until they have a target. They are only an airborne camera platform. Yes, UAVs are sexy right now, but we limit ours to just the capabilities we need. We do not need Milspec ruggedization that only adds weight and expense and cuts into endurance and payload capacity.

We have not eliminated the ground element, either. The Hawkeyes are still finding good trails for the sensors, turning in aliens to the Border Patrol, and will continue to chase the UAVs to the targets. Aerial video is nice, but nothing matches the up-close "deer-in-the-headlights' look when a bunch of illegals find themselves staring into a video camera from ten feet away. Especially if the camera man is flanked by several ugly loco gringos and Border Patrol agents.

nothing matches the up-close "deer-in-the-headlights' look when a bunch of illegals find themselves staring into a video camera from ten feet away. Especially if the camera man is flanked by several ugly loco gringos and Border Patrol agents."

That's great. I'm glad you're keeping the ugly loco gringos employed.