US DHS evaluates PTDS for border surveillance

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is evaluating the Lockheed Martin Persistent Threat Detection System's (PTDS') ability to provide surveillance for border control. Lockheed Martin is providing operational support for the system.

The PTDS is currently deployed by the US Army as a persistent surveillance asset, providing overwatch for the identification of threats and tracking of insurgents in theatre.

As US troops withdraw from current theatres, Lockheed Martin is supporting the US Army in finding new applications for the systems, such as providing surveillance on the southern US border in the CBP evaluation.

Paula Hartley, vice president of Advanced Products Solutions, Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Training, said: ‘Lockheed Martin has a long history developing aerostats, and this effort highlights the system's potential and flexibility. As the mission evolves, PTDS is able to adapt its technology for new uses to support our customers and nation.’

PTDS has the capability to provide panoramic day/night surveillance in extremely challenging weather, and remain aloft at high altitudes for long periods. The system can be equipped with multiple sensors, which can be easily and quickly interchanged in order to support different types of CBP missions. PTDS offers a persistent surveillance capability not possible with manned and unmanned aircraft, which encounter surveillance-time limitations dictated by fuel consumption and payload capacity.

Rob Smith, vice president of C4ISR, Lockheed Martin Information Systems and Global Solutions, said: ‘PTDS is a robust system that has proven its worth protecting our forces around the world. Using PTDS to support the CBP mission is an excellent way to leverage and maximise existing capital assets and experienced operators for border protection efforts.’