The Government is considering the deployment of an advanced drone network to strengthen surveillance, intelligence gathering and emergency response across Antigua and Barbuda.

A United States-based company presented Cabinet with a proposal for a National Beyond Visual Line of Sight, or BVLOS, Security Network.

The proposed system would use drones and supporting command-and-control technology to provide aerial surveillance and rapidly assess reported incidents.

Cabinet was informed that drones could be sent to the scene of an incident before officers arrive, allowing dispatchers and security personnel to obtain an aerial view of the situation.

Potential uses include monitoring ports, coastlines, tourism areas, government buildings, critical infrastructure and other high-value locations.

The technology could also be used to identify people, vehicles and vessels and support the work of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda and the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force.

Visible and recurring aerial patrols could also serve as a deterrent to criminal activity in identified hotspots.

The company has offered to train local officers, supervisors, dispatchers and technical personnel, allowing the country to develop its own operational capacity.

However, Cabinet stressed that no final decision has been made to purchase or deploy the system.

The proposal will undergo technical, financial, legal, operational, regulatory and national-security assessments. Privacy, data protection, maintenance, compatibility with existing systems and overall cost-effectiveness will also be examined.

Cabinet may initially consider a limited pilot programme before deciding whether to proceed with a nationwide rollout.

The national security team will submit recommendations to Cabinet following its assessment.