7th UAS Detachment Revolutionizes Nighttime Search and Rescue with Advanced Drone Ops

Right before Christmas, the 7th Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Detachment of The Ohio State Defense Force embarked on a crucial training operation that has since transformed nighttime search and rescue activities using advanced drone technology. Utilizing the cover of early darkness, they conducted night flight sorties in various field operations. These sorties began with an aircrew taking off from an improvised flightline, as detailed in an associated article. Equipped with “Wilbur”, a Virtual Reality (VR) Vesper drone, the aircrew used its onboard infrared camera to detect heat signatures as minute as a cup of coffee. This technology significantly enhanced their capability to locate targets in challenging conditions. Once a target was identified, a second aircrew swiftly intervened with “Gladius”, a DJI Mavic 3 drone, equipped with powerful onboard LED floodlights. The Gladius illuminated the area and streamed high-definition footage back to the basecamp, enabling continuous search and rescue operations well into the night. This innovative approach not only extended operational hours but also provided a new level of challenge for the novice pilots of the 7th UAS, enhancing their skills in complex scenarios.

The primary mission of the 7th UAS Detachment is to provide crucial operational support to the Emergency Operation Center during statewide emergencies. Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Systems, are pivotal in their strategy, offering unique capabilities that are indispensable during crises. They are particularly effective in swiftly conducting reconnaissance over areas affected by flooding to locate injured or stranded citizens. Another vital function of these drones is their ability to safely assess hazardous zones. They can investigate damaged buildings and infrastructure without exposing emergency personnel to potential dangers. This capability is crucial in ensuring the safety of first responders while efficiently managing emergency situations. Overall, the 7th UAS Detachment’s utilization of drone technology significantly bolsters their ability to respond effectively to emergencies, underscoring the growing importance of unmanned aerial solutions in modern crisis management.

The 7th UAS took advantage of early darkness by completing night flight sorties in the field. Taking off from an improvised flightline (see associated article) an aircrew would seek out heat signatures as small as a cup of coffee with “Wilbur’s” (a VR Vesper) onboard infrared camera. When a target was found, a second aircrew would fly to intercept with “Gladius'” (a DJI Mavic 3) onboard LED flood lights, illuminate the area, then stream high-definition footage back to basecamp. This allowed search and rescue ops to continue well into the night. The training provided the next level of challenge for many new pilots of the 7th UAS. Interested in joining the OHMR please contact https://www.ohiomilitaryreserve.com/how-to-join/ #OhMr #service #military #leadership