Freedom of Information, Information Compliance Unit, Kent Police Headquarters, Sutton
Road, Maidstone, Kent ME15 9BZ
Phone: 01622 654429
Fax: 01622 654437
Email: [Kent Police request email]
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION DISCLOSURE
UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES
1) INTRODUCTION - THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST
In November 2009, Kent Police received a Freedom of Information request from the
Guardian newspaper, requesting the following information;
‘All documents and correspondence held by Kent Police relating to the potential use of
Unmanned Autonomous Systems (UAS).
‘correspondence, including emails and letters, written between Kent Police and BAE
Systems.’
This request had been sent to
several forces involved in the South Coast
Partnership,
a
project to explore the potential of unmanned aerial vehicle technology in a variety of civil
applications, including policing.
Assistant Chief Constable Allyn Thomas of Kent Police is the portfolio holder for this area of
business for the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) as part of the ACPO Air Support
Working Group. Consequently, ACC Thomas was ideally placed to provide information for
this request, as the central point via which any relevant information was likely to have
passed.
The Freedom of Information team contacted the applicant in November and advised him of
the above. It was explained immediately that there was a good deal of information likely
to be held that could be relevant to his request, but that it would be necessary to consider
the public interest in the release of information where disclosure may adversely affect Law
Enforcement or the legitimate Commercial Interests of third parties such as BAE systems,
or because other exemptions may apply to the information. Nevertheless the Force was
confident that a good deal of information would be suitable for disclosure and the journalist
was invited to visit Kent Police to receive the information during a meeting with ACC
Thomas, where he might also have the opportunity to ask any questions about the project.
This meeting occurred on 15th January 2010.
A quantity of information was provided to the applicant, prior to and following the meeting,
and all of this information is included within this disclosure document. The information has
been edited into date order and so far as possible duplications of information, such as
repeated strings of e-mail conversations, have been deleted in the interests of clarity.
1
2) REDACTED OR REFUSED INFORMATION
It became apparent that it would be necessary to redact or refuse some limited information
from the documents. Firstly, it was necessary to redact the names and specific contact
details of certain individuals under section 40(2) of the Freedom of Information Act
(Personal Information) where those individuals were/are not employees of public
authorities or where the individual was at a sufficiently junior level in a public authority that
they might reasonably expect that their details would not be disclosed. However, where
relevant their roles within their organisations remain included, as do general business
addresses and some employees of other organiations have not objected to disclosure of
their names.
The documents necessarily considered the application of vehicles currently employed in a
military context. Furthermore, the potential uses of such technology for surveillance
purposes in the fight against terrorism is obvious. As a consequence, it has been
necessary to remove or redact some of the information because it relates to security
agencies that are exempted from the Act under section 23(1), or could otherwise prejudice
national security as outlined in section 24(1).
When a public authority refuses to provide certain information, the applicant is entitled
under section 1(1) to receive a notice that states a) the fact of the refusal, (b) specifies the
exemption in question and states why the exemption applies. However, section 17(4) of
the Act, which covers refusal notices, also provides that in circumstances where the
provision of an explanation would itself disclose exempt information, the requirement to
provide the explanation at 1(1)(c) does not apply.
To explain this further, in normal circumstances, the refusal notice would explain which
exemption applied to which redaction, and where possible, why this is the case. However,
in regard to these documents, to provide details of which exemption applied to which part
in all cases would provide a context that could itself risk the disclosure of exempt
information, and so we are unable to specify this. For the same reason, while some of the
exemptions have required that we apply a public interest test to determine whether the
exemptions should be maintained, those considerations cannot be released. However,
wherever it is reasonable to do so, exemptions, and changes to exemptions, have been
explained in footnotes. Please note that in all cases, the number of characters shown does
not necessarily correspond with the number of characters redacted.
Please note that Kent Police are unable to confirm nor deny that any further information is
held that relates to exempt security agencies or is information that otherwise could
prejudice national security, by virtue of the provisions of section 23(5) and 24(2) of the
Freedom of Information Act 2000. Kent Police have determined that, in all the
circumstances of this case, the public interest where it is applicable in maintaining the
exclusion of the duty to neither confirm nor deny outweighs the public interest in
confirming whether or not information is held.
Added to the above, it would not be fair to other countries to disclose any information
relating to the use of such technology abroad, and this would be likely to prejudice
relations between the United Kingdom and those countries, thereby engaging the
exemption at Section 27(1)(a).
Kent Police thank the applicant for his ready appreciation of the need to apply these
exemptions.
2
3) THE INTERNAL REVIEW
Some further information was originally refused as we were advised that to disclose the
information would adversely impact upon the commercial interests of BAE systems. The
applicant disputed the application of this exemption and an internal review was carried out
to reconsider whether it was necessary to maintain the exemptions.
It was determined that although some information contained within the documents would
harm the commercial interests of BAE, who were in every case the originators and the
copyright holders of the exempted material, not all of the information could be exempted
under the commercial interests exemption, as for example, some of the information was
already in the public domain or could not otherwise prejudice those interests.
It also became apparent that BAE had originally provided the information with an
expectation of confidence, and that at that time Kent Police had entered into a non-
disclosure agreement with the company.
Although it is recognised that it is not possible for a public authority to ‘contract out’ of its
legal responsibilities under the Freedom of Information Act, it is clear that BAE systems did
provide the information with a reasonable expectation of confidence and that they feel the
information has the quality of confidence in as much as disclosure would diminish the value
of the information to the company. However, the non-disclosure agreement did contain
clauses that outlined that some information, for example that which was already in the
public domain, or was released subsequent to the agreeement, would no longer be bound
by the contract.
Consequently, BAE systems were requested to examine the exempted material in order to
identify precisely which information would harm their interests; was provided with an
expectation of confidence, and was still bound by the agreement. After examination of the
information, BAE consented to the disclosure of a quantity of the information contained in
the previously exempted documents, although in their view some information remained
unsuitable for disclosure.
It must be borne in mind that the principal public interest in the disclosure of this
information centres around the openess and accountability of public authorities and any
intended use of this type of equipment by those public authorities, and not necessarily
upon the capabilities of equipment under development by private concerns such as BAE.
Kent Police consider that the material that has been disclosed more than sufficiently serves
the principal public interest as outlined above.
In the main, the information that has been withheld concerns the specifications and
capabilities of BAE products (and products by BAE’s partners), and information concerning
user requirements on projects where release would benefit other companies wishing to
compete in the same marketplace. Kent Police concur that the remaining redacted
information either constitutes a trade secret or would genuinely be contrary to the
legitimate commercial interests of BAE as a third party. Where the public interest test
applies, we have determined that in all circumstances the public interest in withholding the
information outweighs any public interest in disclosure. Therefore the section 43
exemption is maintained, although it is extended to include (where applicable) section
43(1) as well as the previously applied 43(2).
3
Further, disclosure of the remaining exempted information would amount to an actionable
breach of confidence. Therefore, the exempted information from the documents at
appendices 1,2 and 3, are also to this extent exempt under the absolute exemption at
section 41(1)(a) & (b) of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (Information Provided in
Confidence).
Kent Police thank BAE systems for their diligent and openhanded cooperation with the
review process.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Readers of this Freedom of Information Disclosure should be aware that where documents
or information contained within are subject to copyright by any party, the restrictions of
copyright remain in place and are passed to the recipient of this document. Therefore,
none of the information contained therein should be reproduced without permission of the
copyright owners.
4) THE SOUTH COAST PARTNERSHIP PROJECT
This workstream is only indirectly a Kent Police project, in that it has links with existing
work being carried out within the Force with regard to the provision of Air Support
Services. At this time the goal is only to explore the possibilities presented by such
devices. No significant or identifiable funds have been expended in pursuing the project
and no intentions to employ this technology exist at this time, meaning that no plans or
requests for funding have been presented to the Kent Police Authority.
Since 2007, Kent Police have been exploring collaboration opportunities with other Forces,
in particular Essex Police, to improve efficiencies and reduce expenditure in certain
business areas as part of the 2015 project. One such example is that Kent Police have an
agreement to use the Essex Police helicopter to deal with incidents and operations.
However, although helicopters have been constantly demonstrated as extremely useful,
even vital to policing operations, they are also highly expensive and have an environmental
impact, not simply in terms of fuel exhausts but also as regards noise pollution.
At a national level, the ACPO Air Support Working Group are keen to examine alternatives
to the current arrangements for the provision of aerial policing services. ACC Thomas of
Kent Police is exploring the possibilities presented by UAVs as part of his ACPO portfolio.
It is clear that there is justifiable public concern about the level of surveillance in our
society. However, the ever-changing challenges of modern policing also require the
exploration of innovative solutions. Some information has already been released into the
public domain in the early stages of the project by BAE systems’ press office.
Although elements of the media and groups with a particular interest in civil liberties have
chosen to focus upon the surveillance aspects of these devices, and to use terminology
such as ‘spy planes’ to describe them, this technology is capable of being employed in a
number of other imaginative ways that could be highly beneficial in a civilian role.
4
The potential for the use of such devices for surveillance purposes is obvious. However,
any such use is already subject to regulation and inspection by appropriate bodies such as
the Office of Surveillance Commissioners.
Of more interest to the police service are the benefits that such devices could bring in the
fight against numerous other varieties of modern crimes and offences, including
environmental offences, thefts of farm equipment and illegal immigration and trafficking
offences. Further to this, such devices could also be used more effectively than a helicopter
for purposes such as traffic monitoring during long periods, and for public safety and
security monitoring during large-scale public events, such as the 2012 Olympics.
Kent Police feel that the disclosure of these documents will inform the public more
accurately and completely than the presentation these devices have received thus far in
the media. Kent Police are committed to openness and transparency and it has been our
intended position from the outset of this request to disclose as much information as
possible in the public interest. ACC Thomas’ reply to the Guardian newspaper is included
below.
ACC Allyn Thomas’ response to the Guardian Article (Jan 2010)
ALLYN THOMAS
ASSISTANT CHIEF CONSTABLE (HR AND CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS)
The Editor
Direct Line: 01622 652603
The Guardian
Fax: 01622 652009
E-mail: [email address]
Date: 25 January 2010
Dear Sir,
I would like the opportunity to correct some factual inaccuracies in recent media reports of
Kent Police’s involvement with Unmanned Aerial Systems.
Kent Police has examined the technological possibilities of these systems in partnership with
a number of other forces and government agencies through the South Coast Partnership.
We have not committed any money to this, made any decision about its use nor committed
to any future use of this technology and indeed this technology is not yet licensed to fly in
the UK by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
This project is not new and has been reported publicly since 2007. However, any reports
that we plan to use such Unmanned Aerial Systems are simply untrue.
Yours faithfully,
Allyn Thomas.
5
5) THE DISCLOSED DOCUMENTS
Memorandum (January 2007)
To:
Chief Officers' Tuesday Afternoon Meeting
From:
ALLYN THOMAS ASSISTANT CHIEF CONSTABLE (SPECIALIST OPERATIONS)
Date:
2nd January 2007
Subject:
UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES (UAV'S)
We are due to bring back to Planning in April a further paper looking at the feasibility of
the force procuring Air Support in the form of a helicopter.
At the same time as developing that proposal we have been exploring alternatives. A
promising line of development concerns UAV’s. These are the pilotless planes much in
evidence in military settings.
We have met with BAE Systems and subject to any observations, intend to engage in some
development work with BAE whose product should come to market in stages over the next
two years.
The BAE Herti System is a fully autonomous small aeroplane. That is to say it takes off,
flies around and lands without the direct control of a pilot or person on the ground. The
plane is the size of a small glider and can stay aloft for up to 29 hours.
The promise that such a system offers is very low running costs, i.e. no crew and very few
support staff and as a result pounds rather than thousands of pounds an hour to fly.
The developmental work we will engage in concerns identifying the range of functions it
can perform, for example coastal patrol to identify illegal channel crossings, surveillance
applications – as a military offshoot the plan is inaudible and almost invisible, traffic
enforcement on problem roads as well as all the more conventional air support
applications.
It is likely that we will be part of a several force grouping working with BAE. This would
include forces who operate helicopters and fixed wing aircraft. Many forces are soon to
replace their helicopters and given the decline both in Home Office grants and force
budgets such technology may be very timely.
I am also keeping the ACPO lead Chief Constable McWhirter informed of developments
(and his successor when announced).
The cost to us of taking part in this work will be the small amount of staff time involved in
describing our potential operational requirements and benefits.
With your support I will press on with the project. This seems beneficial whatever the
outcome of the discussion in April Planning.
Allyn Thomas.
6
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E-Mail from ACC Thomas to BAE Systems (August 2007)
From:
Allyn THOMAS ACC 11490
To:
[email address]
CC:
GRANSDEN PSE 53656, Sonya; WATSON INSP 7470, Richard
Date:
23/08/07 10:06
Subject:
HERTI
Andrew I have a note from my colleagues Richard Watson saying that you are in touch and that
we will assist in completing the story board. It sounds like this is going well, are you happy with
our support? I am away next week but either Richard Watson or my staff officer Sonya Gransden
will assist as they can.
I will be discussing our engagement with my chief officers colleagues on the 4th of September so
we don't need any material for that. The next Police Authority meeting will be early in November
so that’s an easy date to get something ready for.
I see we have another meeting set for the 26th September. Sonya will be in touch and sort out a
more convenient venue such as near Heathrow.
Regards,
Allyn
9
Extracts from minutes of KPA meeting (Sept 2007)
10
Presentation to chief officers and KPA* (Sept 2007)
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have been used for a number of years in a military operational
environment. Technology has advanced considerably over the past few years and it now
recognised there is an opportunity to bring this technology into the civilian market.
ACC Thomas has been in consultation with BAE Systems in relation to a proposal to set up a UK
national project, which would help demonstrate a responsible approach to the early adoption of a
UAV for operational duties over the next 5 years. The rationale for Kent’s involvement is the
maritime operational environment and close working with other enforcement agencies.
On 27th July 2007 a meeting was held to discuss the opportunities. Attendees included:
• Kent Police
• Border & Immigration Agency
• HM Revenue & Customs
• Representatives from BAE Systems
The approach was to be centred on a developed & shared understanding of the future operational
requirements. The day had three clear objectives:
• Create a vision
o Agree a shared vision for the potential future use of UAVs to carry out relevant
operations over the English Channel.
• Propose a plan
o Create a high level “Route Map” of how this vision might become a reality within a
logical (and certifiable) timescale.
• Empower the plan
o Jointly analyse the stakeholders who would need to be associated with the plan,
the key requirements to empower the plan (e.g. resources, funding, permissions
etc) and the actions that would need to be taken for the plan to be delivered.
Throughout the day the meeting discussed operational requirements, which were balanced against
current technology and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) flight restrictions. There are currently
significant restrictions on licensing of such aircraft, however, with advances in technology these
restrictions are expected to be eased over the next 2-3 years. At present the restrictions would
inhibit use of such aircraft in urban and populated areas.
The meeting outlined an agreed vision:
The South Coast Consortia will be using UAVs for routine operational exercises over the
English Channel by 2012. The use of these vehicles will be routine to the point that the
Police will only “task” the vehicle and wait for the intelligence output gathered by the system
to be delivered to the existing operational control environment.”
In order to deliver the vision the meeting outlined a timeline of key decisions and milestones:
11
2007:
• Draft Customer Needs
• Stakeholder Analysis
o Aspirations
o Potential Funding
• Simulated Operational Environment
• Project Structure
2008:
• Project Launch
o Communication Plan
o Detailed Costing
o Source Project Funding – including European Development Agency
o Detailed Synthetic Environmental Model
2009:
• System Specification
• Further Project Funding – Partnership agreements
• Develop Operational Procedures
• Develop Business Model
• System Testing
• First System Available
2010:
• Prototype Testing
• Operational Training
• GA22 (Airship) Testing – In lieu of UAV to overcome CAA restrictions
• Production Procurement
2011:
• Flight Testing
2012:
• Full operational use
Notes:
1. ACC Thomas will update ACPO colleagues of this project and then present to the KPA Joint
Working Group for Air Support at the November meeting
2. Minimal initial funding required to scope project. Assistance of Kent Police TV Unit has
been offered to BAE Systems to develop an operational storyboard video
3. BAE Systems are in consultation with other UK Police Forces to develop similar technology
4. The opportunity for Government and European funding is being explored by BAE Systems
5. It is recognised this technology is not seen as a replacement to traditional air support but
as an opportunity to be at the forefront of development within the civilian market,
particularly in the maritime and frontier operations environment
Richard Watson
Inspector 2015 – Collaboration
* The above document was referred to at a meeting of the Kent Police Authority (KPA) under the previously included
‘item 2’ dealing with Air Support issues in general, in particular arrangements to employ the Essex Police helicopter.
However, the presentation was not formally or specifically delivered to the KPA.
12
South Coast Partnership Stakeholders Meeting (Oct 2007)
29 October 2007 - Warton
Attendees
Andy Cole (AC)
HM Inspector
Border & Immigration Agency
Gill Armistead (GA)
Assistant Director
Border & Immigration Agency
Jon Dodman (JD)
Chief Inspector, Special Operations
Essex Police
Oliver Dismore (OD)
Home Office Aviation Advisor
Home Office / NPIA
Richard Watson (RWa)
Inspector
Kent Police
Sonya Gransden (SG)
Staff Officer to ACC Thomas
Kent Police
Andy Adamson (AA)
Unit Executive Officer
Merseyside Police
Ian Humphreys (IH)
Crime Reduction Inspector
Merseyside Police
Andy Mellors (AM)
Head of Civil Autonomous Systems
BAE Systems
Caroline Dolman (CD)
Delivery Manager SCP
BAE Systems
Mark Veevers (MV)
Requirements Manager
BAE Systems
Richard Sleeman (RS)
Senior Engineer
BAE Systems
Richard Williams (RWi)
Director Civil Autonomous Systems
BAE Systems
Rob Brockie
Business Development
BAE Systems
Billy Beggs
Concept Demonstrations Manager
BAE Systems
Agenda
o Introductions
o Recap of concept and summary of progress
o Names and vision
o Direction
o Project planning and working structure
o Requirements
Key points from discussion
Operational
o Further potential uses for a UAV system included preventing theft of/from cash machines,
preventing theft of tractors and monitoring antisocial driving. The key advantage here will
be in noticing unusual activity to enable enforcement action and being able to be quickly on
the scene, and in the longer term monitoring and building up a picture of such activity.
(AT)
o Part of the payload could be a commercial vehicle tracker device for tractors and cars (AA)
and if that were the case it might be possible to obtain commercial funding for that item.
(AT)
o The potential exists to offset some of the running costs by using ‘downtime’ in the air to
conduct commercial work, eg mapping surveys.
Certification
o Newly issued FAA guidance suggests that flying over congested areas will be a bigger
barrier to certification than flying in non-segregated airspace. (OD)
13
Business model
o One of the main advantages of a UAV system is rapid deployment – in setting up an
operating system or organisation we need to be careful not to negate that advantage by
spreading bases too thinly and adding travel time. (AT)
o It will be important to set up working groups as soon as possible for discussion on
developing business models (RWi)
Project/Direction
o Agreed that both the group of stakeholders and the project we are undertaking will be
referred to as the ‘South Coast Partnership’. This is on the understanding that it does not
exclude potential stakeholders who are not south coast based, and that the word
partnership does not carry any legal connotations.
o Agreed that the wording for the SCP Vision Statement should be:
‘From 2012 UAVs will be routinely used by border agencies, the police and other
government bodies. These systems will be automated so that operators task the vehicles
and receive the relevant imagery and intelligence. This product will be delivered to existing
command and control systems.’
o Agreed that the SCP should have an Memorandum of Understanding between stakeholders
to define aims, objectives and working structures etc. This will not be a legally binding
agreement, but will ensure cohesion and eliminate any future confusion
o Agreed that the working structure for the project should include a top level steering group
meeting every four months, supported by working groups meeting more frequently as
required.
o A target for 2008 was proposed – to reach the stage of using a Jetstream for
demonstrations (RWi)
Actions
o Check that the name ‘South Coast Partnership’ is not already in use –
CD
[Complete – no obvious clashes found.]
o Circulate a briefing paper on Tyciant, Astraea and EDA –
RWi o Draft a Memorandum of Understanding (a non-binding agreement) for the SCP –
CD
o Prepare a one-page press release for the police aviation conference, and circulate to
stakeholders for comment/approval –
CD
o Provide a briefing note to GA on European partners and funding –
RWi
o Speak to Tyciant management to determine the relevant lead police force in Wales –
Rwi
14
E-Mail from ACC Thomas to CInsp Watson (Oct 2007)
From:
Jane BRAZIER PSE 52124
To:
WATSON INSP 7470, Richard
Date:
16/10/07 10:50
Subject:
South Coast Partnership
Richard,
As discussed.
Some other suggestions, what do you think?
The Vision
By 2012 UAV's will be routinely used by border agencies, the police and other emergency services.
This will be so automated that operators simply task the vehicle and wait for the imaging and
other intelligence to be gathered and delivered to the existing command and control systems.
The Roles
Frontier Security
Maritime Surveillance
Harbour Security
Road and Rail Monitoring
Initial Assessments of incidents/damage
Search and Rescue Support (Land or Sea)
Event Security
Communications Relay
Regards.
Allyn Thomas
15
E-MAIL from CInsp Dodman, Essex Police to ACC Thomas (Nov 2007)
MEMORANDUM
To: ACC Thomas
From: Ch Insp 821 Jon Dodman
Kent Police
Special Operations
Ext: 480606
Date: 1st November 2007
Your Ref:
My Ref:
Use Of UAVs
Sir, at the meeting on Monday 29th October 2007, you asked me to consider uses for
UAVs, here are my thoughts:
1. Aerial photography (events, RTCs, planning operations etc)
2. Monitoring of Traffic at large scale road closures
3. Surveillance of premises, vehicles etc
4. ANPR operations either to locate offenders or stolen vehicles
5. KSI reduction – via signage on trunk roads and publicity re aerial Gatso etc (this could
help with our motorcycle KSI issues on country roads also)
6. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
7. Maritime security
8. Monitoring of incidents involving airborne threats eg. CBRN or large scale Hazchem
incidents
9. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
10. Locating hydroponics sites
11. MISPER searches in open countryside
The opportunities are endless. As discussed, I see the UAV as a complement to, rather
than a replacement for the helicopter.
Jon Dodman
Chief Inspector
Special Operations
16
E-Mail from PSE Gransden (ACC Thomas’ staff officer) to ACC Thomas (Nov 2007)
From:
Sonya Gransden
To:
THOMAS ACC 11490, Allyn
Date:
02/11/07 08:49
Subject:
Press Release - UAVs
Sir,
BAE have sent us the following press release for comment, for use at the Police Aviation
Conference next week:
****
UNMANNED AIR SYSTEM PROJECT FOR SOUTH COAST FORMALLY LAUNCHED Unmanned aircraft
could be used for police and coastal patrol work on Britain’s south east coast from as soon as
2012, following the launch of new project that sees BAE Systems partnering with a range of
government bodies. Although some trials of remote-controlled air vehicles have been carried out
by police forces in Britain, this will be the first time that autonomous aircraft will be used by civil
bodies in the UK. 2012 is the date currently accepted by ASTREA and other bodies concerned with
the development and certification of UAVs as the earliest achievable date for UAVs to operate in
controlled airspace. The project, called the South Coast Partnership, will see BAE Systems using its
expertise in the field of fully autonomous unmanned air systems, or UAS, to work with its partners,
including Kent Police, Essex Police and the Border and Immigration Agency to ensure UAS are
introduced as efficiently and effectively as possible. Speaking at the launch of the South Coast
Partnership, at the Police Aviation Conference 2007 currently taking place in the Hague, Andrew
Mellors, Head of Civil Autonomous Systems at BAE Systems, said: “From 2012 fully autonomous
unmanned air systems will be routinely used by border agencies, the police and other government
bodies. These systems will be fully autonomous so that operators task the vehicles and receive the
relevant imagery and intelligence direct to the ground control station in real time.” UAS can
undertake a range of tasks that are difficult or expensive for manned aircraft. With their long
endurance and ability to operate in potentially hazardous environments, UAS offer real potential in
the fields of maritime and coastline surveillance as well as showing broader potential for areas
such as pipeline, plant and infrastructure surveillance.About BAE SystemsBAE Systems is the
premier global defence and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for
air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and
customer support services. With 96,000 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded £15
billion (US $27 billion) in 2006*.*On a pro forma basis, assuming BAE Systems had owned Armor
Holdings Inc for the whole of 2006"
***
Richard Watson has commented that they mention Essex Police specifically and therefore would
you be happy for me to forward the press release onto C/I Jon Dodman/ACC Peter Lowton for
their views?
I will also update Liz Dickens in case we asked for comment following the conference.
Regards,
Sonya
PSE Sonya Gransden
Staff Officer - ACC Thomas (Specialist Operations)
Kent Police Headquarters
Sutton Road, Maidstone
Kent ME15 9BZ
Tel: 01622 652265 (Ext. 19 2265)
Mobile: XXXXXXXXXXXX
E-mail: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
17
Conference Notes (Nov 2007)
Police Aviation Conference
07 - 08 November 2007
World Forum Convention Centre, The Hague
Purpose
– Launch the South Coast Partnership to the right audience
– Find and engage other useful stakeholders or interested parties
– If possible improve visibility for/of potential funding source
Attendees
- Andy Mellors – BAE Systems
- Richard Watson – Kent Police
- Caroline Dolman – BAE Systems
- Andy Cash – BAE Systems
- David Waters – BAE Systems
- David Arrow – BAE Systems
Approach
- Speaker presentation and associated Q&A on South Coast Partnership (purpose,
requirements, programme etc) and on UAVs and their wider potential uses in the
civil sector – Andy Mellors and Richard Watson
- Exhibition stand displaying SCP, Herti, Hero and Talisman. Data card handouts on
SCP, Civil Herti, Hero and Talisman. SCP, Hero, Talisman and autonomous systems
videos playing.
- BAE sponsored conference bags
- Press release launching SCP
Points of interest from conference presentations and subsequent discussions
-
None of the European police forces /Coastguards etc who presented (France,
Germany, Italy, Sweden, Netherlands, Malta, Belgium) were aware of any move within
their forces to introduce UAVs for general use. The view seemed to be that either it
would be unacceptable or too difficult in the near future for safety reasons, or that it
would be unaffordable to have a vehicle which could only do surveillance and not any
of the other tasks carried out by existing air assets. All stated that they expected to
wait for 2012 and see what the state of play was then – except for the German Cdr
Gunter Carloff of the Federal Police, who did not believe that UAVs would come into
general use any time soon.
-
Ollie Dismore presented a clear picture of police aviation in the UK, both pros and
cons. He spoke about the introduction of UAVs as an inevitable progression, and gave
a summary of what his key requirements would be:
18
-
o
Safe
o
Cheap
o
Quick to deploy
o
All weather (especially wind)
o
Long endurance
o
Good image quality
He also gave a very good introduction to the SCP.
- Some air support units are very defensive about the possible introduction of UAVs,
seeing them as a replacement for helicopters and thus a threat.
- The SCP presentation was very successful, generating a lot of interest and discussion –
more so than any other presentation
- The presentation by Lt Col Martin Cauchi Inglott (CO Maritime Squadron, AF of Malta)
let to a useful discussion and the opening up of a potentially excellent opportunity for
HERTI to take part in the next FRONTEX operation based in Malta, against illegal
migrants travelling from North Africa. If it can be arranged his would provide a perfect
situation in which to demonstrate and test Herti’s capability in a real operational
scenario with significant similarities to the initial maritime surveillance scenarios that
the SCP is working on.
Other contacts / Points of interest
- A good contact was made with Nigel Lemon from Police Aviation Services, the
company which operates a significant proportion of UK police helicopters, and which
may be a potential service provider for operating a UAV pool.
- Various information was gathered from other exhibitors on technologies. Of these the
one which could have the most direct application to the SCP was imaging enhancement
software to track individuals, monitor crowd volume etc.
Conclusion
Attendance at the event was definitely worthwhile overall, both in terms of a successful
project launch and in terms of generating new opportunities – so the first two objectives
were achieved, although there was no discussion on funding of any sort, so the third
objective was not met.
However in this case an exhibition presence was probably of minimal value due to the
limited potential for delegates to visit the stand and engage in discussion, so the second
objective was not achieved to the degree we had hoped. The display usefully illustrated
autonomy across land sea and air systems, but the hostility of some delegates (from both
PAC and neighbouring Helipower), almost all of whom were connected with use of
helicopters in civil or military arenas, meant that although they came to look they were
reluctant to engage in discussion.
19
E-Mail from BAE to ACC Thomas (Nov 2007)
>>> "Williams, Richard J (UK Warton)" <[email address]> 24/11/07
13:07:40 >>>
Allyn, Jane,
I have just realised that I don't have your telephone contact details in my blackberry. I hope this
gets to you before tomorrow. Please see attached from our head of communications. It looks like
the South Coast Partnership may be covered in this weeks Sunday times. The times have already
contacted Gavin Foxall at the BIA, so you might want to talk to Gill? I believe Gavin planned to
give a positive response. Let me know if there are any issues which I can help with? Richard
Williams
--------------------------
Sent using BlackBerry
----- Original Message -----
From: Bunce, Andy (UK)
To: Williams, Richard J (UK Warton)
Sent: Fri Nov 23 16:40:42 2007
Subject: SUNDAY TIMES - HERTI - SOUTH COAST PARTNERSHIP
Activity Details
Subject: SUNDAY TIMES - HERTI - SOUTH COAST PARTNERSHIP
Activity Type: Telephone Call
Created By: Andy Bunce
Journalists: Abul Taher (The Sunday Times), +44 (0)20 7782 5000, abul.taher@sunday-
times.co.uk
Clients: Military Air Solutions (Dept)
Press Officers: n/a
Activity Date: 23/11/2007
Activity Time: 15:45
Location: Warton
Department: Corporate Communications, Military Air Solutions
Notes: Abul Taher from the Sunday Times rang to follow-up on our South Coast Partnership
press release issued on 7th November. He also had our HERTI Frontline Success release. He was
asking about the generic tasks Herti could perform, which I gave him. He then wanted info on the
specific tasks that the likes of the Kent Police were interested in - I advised him to speak direct to
them. He then went on to ask about HERTI's capabilities which I again gave from the brochure
material. I stressed on more than one occasion that the South Coast Partnership was very much in
the early stages and was about looking at the potential of UAVs operating in such areas etc. He
also repeatedly called HERTI a drone which I corrected him on but I'm not sure he got it. I also
have a concern that he was tryi! ng to go down the 'big brother is watching you' route and again I
tried to steer him away from this by talking about generic roles such as border patrols,
reconnaissance, surveillance, homeland security etc. He wouldn't committ as to whether he would
run a story this week-end - I think a lot will depend on what if anything he gets from the likes of
the Kent Police.
20
Text of E-mail from Caroline Dolman, Ministry of Defence, to attendees of South Coast
Partnership stakeholder’s meeting (19th Dec 2007)
All,
The next meeting of the South Coast Partnership will be on Thursday 28 February 2008,
1000-1500. Kent Police have kindly offered to host the meeting, so it will be held at their
headquarters. The address is:
Kent Police Headquarters
Sutton Road
Maidstone
Kent
ME15 9BZ
A map is attached. Further details of the room, and agenda etc, will be sent nearer the time.
Could you please let me know whether you will be attending or not so that we have an idea of
numbers.
Also attached are the following:
* A brief update on progress with the project since the last meeting in September
* A summary report on the Police Aviation Conference, where the SCP was publicly launched
* A copy of the presentation about the SCP given at the PAC
* A copy of the press release made at the time of the PAC, for those who have not yet seen it
* Copies of the two datacards handed out to interested parties at the PAC and subsequently at
other events and meetings
* Copies of the two articles about the SCP that have appeared recently in the press
In addition, if you would like to receive a copy of the video we used at the PAC, which shows a
day in the life of a UAV over the South Coast, could you please let me have an address to post it
to. If you would like several copies to give to other people as well, just let me know.
thanks, and Merry Christmas!
Caroline
Caroline Dolman
XXXXXXXXXXXX
Civil Autonomous Systems
Warton Aerodrome
W427D
Preston
Lancashire
PR4 1AX
[email address] <mailto:[email address]>
21
South Coast Partnership Project Update (19 December 2007)
Since the last meeting of the Partnership on 29 October:
Membership
Two new members have been added to the Partnership: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX and the Marine &
Fisheries Agency (MFA).
So the list of member organisations currently stands at:
Kent Police
Essex Police
Merseyside Police
Borders and Immigration Agency
HMRC
MFA
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
In addition, Greater Manchester Police and the West Midlands Fire Service have both expressed
interest and are discussing with us the possibility of becoming part of the project.
Requirements capture
Work is ongoing to develop a detailed picture of the requirements of each partner and to
amalgamate them into an overall requirement. Some initial discussions have taken place, and
more will be scheduled with other partners for the new year. The first draft of a document defining
the operational scenario for maritime surveillance is being circulated for comment and
amendment. A round table discussion including practitioners from all partner organisations will be
arranged for around February.
Project Launch
The Partnership was launched publicly at the Police Aviation Conference in the Hague at the
beginning of November with a joint presentation by Richard Watson and Andy Mellors. The event
was very successful, and the Partnership generated a lot of interest. See conference report for full
details.
Police Audience
On 17 January Richard Watson will be giving a presentation on the SCP to the ACPO Tech and
Training Sub Group of the main Air Ops Working Group. We understand that he Air Ops Working
Group, which meets on the same day, will be setting up a separate working group specifically to
look at the various UAV related projects, of which SCP is one, taking place with police forces
around the UK.
22
Media
A press release, which was circulated to stakeholders at the time, was made to coincide with the
project launch at the beginning of November. Over the following weeks there has been increasing
media interest, with an article appearing in Kent on Sunday (11 Nov) and one in the Sunday Times
(02 Dec.) In addition Richard Williams was interviewed for BBC South Today (04 Dec) as part of an
article on border controls, and Richard Williams and Allyn Thomas were interviewed on BBC Radio
Kent (06 Dec.) On 07 Dec Richard was also interviewed by Look North West (TV) and by
Lancashire FM. Other partners have also received enquiries from both the media and the public.
As time goes on and more interest in the project is generated (as we expect will happen) it will
become increasingly difficult to remain fully consistent in our responses across the Partnership. We
are therefore considering how best to address this potential problem.
Dates for your diary
Thurs 28 February - Stakeholder meeting – Kent Police HQ, Maidstone
Wed 25- Thur 26 June – ParcAberporth Unmanned Systems 2008 – Herti demonstration
Wed 25
or Thurs 26 June (TBC) – Stakeholder / Steering Group Meeting – ParcAberporth
Mon 14- Sun 20 July – Farnborough International Airshow 2008 – details TBC
Other Events
We are in the process of deciding which exhibitions and conferences during 2008 will be
appropriate forums for showcasing the South Coast Partnership and extending its potential. Likely
candidates so far include:
XXXXXX
XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
12-Mar
13-Mar HOSDB Exhibition
RAF Halton, Aylesbury, Bucks.
24-Jun
26-Jun ACPO and APA conference &
Liverpool
exhibition
25-Jun
26-Jun ParcAberporth Unmanned
ParcAberporth, Cardigan, Wales
Systems
14-Jul
20-Jul Farnborough International
Farnborough, Hampshire
Airshow
Summer
Homeland Security Europe
Brussels
date tbc
05-Nov
06-Nov Police Aviation Conference
Olympia, London
Any comments on these or suggestions for additional or alternative events would be much
appreciated. Please also let me know if you would be willing to attend any of these events in order
to jointly promote the Partnership.
Caroline Dolman
Delivery Manager, SCP
BAE Systems
23
Forwarded E-mail String re SCP (January 2008)
The following information is an e-mail discussion that has been included in total. However, for the
sake of clarity it has been re-arranged into chronological order, rather than the form in which it
was originally held. The e-mails via BAE and NPIA were forwarded to Kent Police.
E-Mail from BAE to National Police Improvement Agency (NPIA)
-----Original Message-----
From: "Dolman, Caroline (UK) (MOD)" <[email address]>
[mailto:[email address]]
Sent: 07 December 2007 14:51
To: Dismore Oliver
Cc: [email address]
Subject: South Coast Partnership
Ollie,
I'm just in the process of setting up the next meeting for the SCP, which will be the senior steering
group. Would you be free on 28 February for a meeting in Kent? Allyn Thomas has kindly offered
to host the meeting to save everyone having to come all the way up to Warton. Alternative dates
we have at the moment are 12 or 14 Feb, if you can't manage 28th?
Also, I gather that you have discussed with Andy before the possibility of arranging a meeting with
Bernard Hogan-Howe, and of briefing him jointly on the SCP? Would you still be able to help us
with that please? Obviously it would be very useful if we could make sure that the SCP is firmly on
his agenda, get his views, answer any questions etc.
thanks very much
Caroline
Caroline Dolman
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
Civil Autonomous Systems
Warton Aerodrome
W427D
Preston
Lancashire
PR4 1AX
[email address]
24
Reply from NPIA to BAE
>>> Dismore Oliver <[email address]> 07/12/07 15:51 >>>
Hi Caroline,
28 Feb is fine - should be nicely jet-lagged post HAI Heli-Expo in Houston! 12 and 14 are also do-
able at the moment.
There is certainly value in exposing BH-H to the project, in due course, especially as he is already
warm to UAV innovation. The formal route for new capabilities is through the ACPO Tech and
Training Sub Group (ACPO T&T) of the main Air Ops Working Group (AOWG), chaired by Ch Supt
Dick Rothwell from West Yorkshire - next meeting am 17 Jan 08 in Liverpool.
I have copied Ch. Insp. Jon Roy (BH-H's ACPO Portfolio Staff Officer) on this e-mail and would
suggest the best way forward would be for Kent's regional representative (which is Essex, I
believe) or Richard Watson (as a co-opted presenter) to bring the project to wider attention at the
Tech & Training meeting. If Jon Roy is free, it would be useful if he attended the SCP meeting as
well, as BH-H's eyes and ears in this area. Sorry to separate the Police and commercial interests
but it is important to get ACPO T&T buy-in to the concept, which will benefit all in the long run.
Downstream, BH-H's diary permitting, we can then set up a briefing for AOWG & T&T interested
parties - ideally at RAF Woodvale (Merseyside Police helicopter base) where HERTI can be seen in
context.
I hope that helps - please feel free to discuss further.
Regards
Ollie
Captain Ollie Dismore
Home Office Aviation Advisor
T: 020 7147 8444
M: 07785 387848 (Primary)
E-Mail from CInsp Watson to ACC Thomas (with regard to the communications above)
>>> Richard WATSON INSP 7470 12/12/07 10:56 >>>
Sir
The attached E mail is from Ollie Dismore to BAE Systems. In summary it asks Ollie's view on
making representations to Mr Hogan-Howe about the proposed new technology. Ollie has
suggested taking the concept and South Coast Partnership to the Tech and Training Group for Air
Support. This group is due to meet on 17th January 2008.
I would value your views, there is a meeting of the SCP planned for February, it may be more
appropriate to wait until after this meeting to present it to the national stage as we may be a little
more advanced in the planning.
Richard
25
(Reply from ACC Thomas to CInsp Watson - undated)
Richard,
I think it would make sense for you to take the model and the partnership to the Jan tech
meeting. This would be a police - police discussion. I don't think that causes the SOP any
problems but it would move it along in the police world a bit.
Allyn Thomas.
E-mail from CInsp Watson to ACC Thomas
From:
Richard WATSON INSP 7470
To:
THOMAS ACC 11490, Allyn
Date:
07/01/08 13:35
Subject:
Fwd: RE: South Coast Partnership
Sir
Thank you. I have been in contact with the secretary of the Tech and Training Group and have
asked for a slot on the agenda. The meeting has now been slipped back to 18th February. This
meeting is then followed by the Main Air Support meeting chaired by Mr Hogan-Howe.
I will come and speak with you over the next two weeks to discuss what you would like included.
Richard
26
Internal E-Mail (4th Feb 2008)
-----Original Message-----
From: Jane BRAZIER PSE 52124
To: WATSON INSP 7470, Richard <[email address]>
Sent: 04/02/2008 13:46:23
Subject: UAV's + Helicopters
Richard,
I guess you have seen the other e-mail about the tethered balloon that the Highways Agency wish
to buy to work with us. Looks like fun.
To see if this will work we need to get some video of what distance can be seen from hovering
400, 600 and 800 feet above the ground. Could we get the Essex helicopter to hover at Junction
10, near Sellindge over the M20 half way between 10 and 11 and over Junction 11.
If they would then take a video to show what distance can be seen that would assist in the
business case for the balloon.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX.*
Allyn Thomas.
E-Mail Reply (5th Feb 2008)
From:
Richard WATSON INSP 7470
To:
BRAZIER PSE 52124, Jane
Date:
05/02/08 07:17
Subject:
Re: UAV's + Helicopters
I will arrange the footage to be taken over the next week.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
* All information exempted from this document is exempt under section 27(1)(a) as it refers to the interests
of another state outside the UK and may if disclosed prejudice those interests.
27
Agenda for SCP Stakeholders Meeting (Feb 2008)
South Coast Partnership Meeting of Stakeholders
Thursday 28 February 2008, 1000-1500
Kent Police HQ, Maidstone
Agenda
1000
Welcome and introductions
ACC Allyn Thomas, Kent Police
1015
2008 planning
Richard Williams, BAE Systems
1100
ACPO Technology & Training meeting feedback
Insp Richard Watson, Kent Police
1130
Operational Analysis and role development
Mark Veevers, BAE Systems
1215
Lunch
1245
SCP business model
Richard Williams, BAE Systems
1330
Project Morrigan overview
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
1415
ASTRAEA and Tyciant progress report, and 2008
Richard Williams, BAE Systems
opportunities for SCP
1500
Close and depart
Expected attendees
XXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXxXXX
Graham
Ford-Keyte
MFA
Gary
Owen
MFA
Allyn
Thomas
Kent Police
Richard
Watson
Kent Police
John
West
Kent Fire Service
Ollie
Dismore
Home Office / NPIA
Nigel
Stockdale
Borders and Immigration Agency
XXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Phil
Crabtree
BAE Systems
Samantha Harrison
BAE Systems
John
Lees
BAE Systems
Andy
Mellors
BAE Systems
Mark
Veevers
BAE Systems
Richard
Williams
BAE Systems
Unconfirmed attendees
Jon
Dodman
Essex Police
Keith
Hulbert
HMRC
Andy
Adamson
Merseyside Police
Ian
Humphreys
Merseyside Police
Jonathan
Roy
Merseyside Police
Notes of SCP Stakeholders Meeting (Feb 2008)
28
South Coast Partnership Stakeholders Meeting
28th February 2008
Kent Police Headquarters, Sutton Road, ME15 9BZ
Attendees
Nigel Stockdale (NS)
Assistant Director
Border & Immigration Agency
Jon Dodman (JD)
Chief Inspector, Special Operations
Essex Police
Oliver Dismore (OD)
Home Office Aviation Advisor
Home Office / NPIA
Keith Hulbert (KH)
Maritime and Aviation Ops
HMRC
John West (JW)
Kent Fire & Rescue Service
Allyn Thomas (AT)
Assistant Chief Constable
Kent Police
Bryn Price (BP)
Staff Officer to ACC Thomas
Kent Police
Richard Watson (RWa)
Inspector
Kent Police
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Andy Mellors (AM)
Head of Civil Autonomous Systems
BAE Systems
Mark Veevers (MV)
Requirements Manager
BAE Systems
Philip Crabtree (PC)
Business Development Manager (UK) BAE Systems
Richard Williams (RWi)
Director Civil Autonomous Systems
BAE Systems
Samantha Harrison (SH)
Delivery Manager SCP
BAE Systems
Attachments
o
BAE Systems slides “20080228 presentation SCP stakeholder meeting RW & AM.ppt”
o
Operational Analysis slides
o
SCP Contacts List
Agenda
o
Welcome and Introductions
o
Summary of SCP
o
Project Morrigan Overview*
o
Progress so far
o
Operational Analysis and Role development
o
2008 Planning
o
Close and Depart
Status of Actions from Previous Meeting
o
Check that the name ‘South Coast Partnership’ is not already in use –
CD [
Closed – no
obvious clashes found.]
o
Circulate a briefing paper on Tyciant, Astraea and EDA –
RWi [
Closed]
o
Draft a Memorandum of Understanding (a non-binding agreement) for the SCP –
CD
[Ongoing action – approach discussed further at meeting and new action placed to review the
Project Morrigan documentation]
o
Prepare a one-page press release for the police aviation conference, and circulate to
stakeholders for comment/approval –
CD [
Closed]
o
Provide a briefing note to GA on European partners and funding –
RWi [
Closed]
29
o
Speak to Tyciant management to determine the relevant lead police force in Wales –
RWi
[
Closed Lead Police Force in Wales would be South Wales Police]
Key points from discussion
Project Morrigan Overview
o XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX gave a detailed brief on the Project activities including the recent Air
Warfare Centre trials of BAE systems Hert1 in an operational theatre.
o XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Progress so far
o SCP project was successfully launched at the Police Aviation Conference in The Hague on
7th Nov 2007. A joint presentation was given by Andrew Mellors and Richard Watson.
o This years Police Aviation Conference is being held in London Olympia and so it is expected
that there will be a greater presence from UK police services. It was proposed that SCP
should attend to provide an update on progress since the launch.
o The CAA was briefed in Feb 2008 on the SCP activities and now has a much better
understanding of the relationship between SCP and other key programmes such as
ASTRAEA.
o Richard Watson attended the technical training sub-group of the ACPO Air Support working
group where it was successfully recommended that any future Air Support strategy should
include consideration of UASs.
o ATC Ops Northamptonshire has been tasked with leading a working group to look into the
Police’s use of UAVs. Richard Watson will be the South Coast Partnership point of contact
on this group.
o The ‘South East Collaboration’ was reported to have done some work to assess and
compare the roles of Police Helicopters, Fixed Wing assets and UAVs. BAE Systems has also
carried out some operational analysis work to look at strengths of roles for Helicopters and
UAVs and assess how they can work together to provide the most efficient co-operation. It
was proposed that the SCP should contact the South East Collaboration and request a brief
on their work so that a joint comparison can be made with the BAE Systems activity
.
Action OD to provide points of contact.
o Project Tyciant has recently received renewed impetus from The Welsh 1st Minister and the
Welsh Assembly Government. Various communications in the last few days have confirmed
their support to making Tyciant happen and an understanding that this needs to be in the
timescales of the SCP. A further expression of interest will be submitted today.
Operational Analysis and Role Development
o A draft SCP Operational Requirements document has been developed to capture the
requirements for the 2 SCP maritime surveillance scenarios identified over the English
Channel. The document is currently a result of discussions with Kent Police and the Border
and Immigration Agency.
Action SH to circulate the document for review.
o To develop the document further and to get it to a first issue, BAE Systems requested
similar discussions with those agencies who have not already contributed. To assist in this
process, RWi offered that BAE Systems would be happy to conduct wider stakeholder
briefings within individual organisations.
Action all to consider whether a wider stakeholder
briefing would be of interest.
30
o As part of further discussions with agencies a further objective will be to collect any
additional requirements to the maritime surveillance scenario and prioritise these for
further detailed studies.
o M Veevers outlined the next steps for the operational analysis work which will include a
sensor study to establish what sensor equipment is required to carry out the operations
defined in the Requirement Document and understand the extent to which this capability
currently exists.
2008 Planning
o The BAE Systems team now has John Lees in place who will be investigating and
developing business models for civil UAS.
Action RWi to ask John Lees to arrange to see
both OD and AT to discuss.
o It was agreed that the SCP should consider again the need for a Memorandum of
Understanding (or Terms of Reference document) between partners, particularly to ensure
co-ordination of communications to the media and other key stakeholders. The way
forward was agreed as:
o Review the Morrigan document set for relevance to SCP.
Action JH to release the
Morrigan documents to SCP.
o Develop a simple NDA that sets out the process for how the SCP partners will agree
communications such as press releases.
Action SH
o Events and shows were discussed to identify those in 2008 that may be relevant for SCP
partners to attend or present at. BAE Systems identified 4 events (mainly air shows); of
which Farnborough is a key focus in July 2008. Other potential events were suggested:
o National ACPO conference.
Action RWa to advise dates / venue for 2008
o National Chief Fire Officers conference, May 2008
o
Action SH to create events list and circulate
o It was suggested that the next stakeholder meeting could be held during Farnborough air
show from 14th-20th July.
Summary of Actions
o Provide points of contact for the South East Collaboration –
OD
o Circulate the Draft Operational Requirements document to all SCP participants
– SH
o All Agencies to indicate if a wider stakeholder briefing on SCP from BAES would be useful
to them -
All
o Request John Lees to talk to OD and AT regarding business models
– RWi
o Investigate release of the Morrigan documents into the SCP for review –
JH
o Develop an NDA for SCP communications
- SH
o Provide dates for the ACPO conference –
RWa [Post meeting note: Conference is to be
held on 24-26 June 2008 at the Arena and Convention Centre, Liverpool]
o Circulate an events list for SCP for review and addition of further relevant events –
SH
*
Some information concerning Project Morrigan, which is a project concerning the use of UAV technology in a
military context, was originally redacted due to defence and national security concerns. However, the review has
determined that some limited information concerning the existence, purpose and progress of Project Morrigan is
available from press releases and other information on the BAE Systems website. Further information concerning
the project remains exempt by virtue of section 26 (Defence).
31
Letter from ACC Thomas to Highways Agency (March 2008)
ALLYN THOMAS
ASSISTANT CHIEF CONSTABLE (SPECIALIST OPERATIONS)
John Aspinall B.Eng(Hons) Ceng MICE MIHT
Direct Line: 01622 652603
Traffic Operations Director
Fax: 01622 652009
South East
Highways Agency
E-mail: [email address]
Federated House
London Road
Date: 3rd March 2008
Dorking
Surrey RH4 1SZ
Dear John,
I mentioned before some development work we have been doing with BAE Systems about the use
of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in a range of settings.
I enclose some promotional material they have produced around this and other products.
Are you interested in engaging with the South Coast Partnership as a potential future user of such
aerial surveillance? Happy to discuss further. I must be due to buy you a coffee again soon!
Yours sincerely,
Allyn Thomas.
32
Letter from ACC Thomas to The Times newspaper (April 2008)
ALLYN THOMAS
ASSISTANT CHIEF CONSTABLE (SPECIALIST OPERATIONS)
The Editor
Direct Line: 01622 652603
The Times
Fax: 01622 652009
(via Fax)
E-mail: [email address]
Date: 24th April 2008
Dear Sir,
Not for publication
I write following your article in The Times last Saturday on the police use of unmanned aerial
systems, to ensure you have accurate information for future reference on the background to and
benefits of the project.
The partnership with BAE Systems involves not only the police, , but also includes organisations
with whom we already work closely, such as the new UK Border Agency and the Maritime and
Coastguard Agency. The Serious and Organised Crime Agency and other public sector partners
are also interested in joining.
What attracts us all to the technology is that it can meet the needs of several partners at the same
time. Thus a UAS flying over the Channel can look for maritime pollution, inappropriate fishing,
smaller craft carrying prohibited goods, as well as crime prevention and counter terrorism security.
There are clear public safety benefits, too, for example in locating missing people or those in
difficulty on the cliffs, shoreline and sea. The relatively low cost per flying hour means that for
some functions the UAS may offer much enhanced efficiency and value for money - particularly
important for public sector organisations such as the police.
The technical capabilities of the equipment are well covered in the article, but I fear the agencies’
intentions for its use may have been misunderstood given the comments by Shami Chakrabarti in
response, I assume, to information put to her.
I am happy to provide further information should you return to this issue in the future.
Yours faithfully,
Allyn Thomas.
33
Internal E-mail conversation– ACC Thomas to CInsp Richard Watson, (via Jane Brazier,
ACC Thomas’ P.A) (February 2009)
Original Message from ACC Thomas
>>> Jane BRAZIER PSE 52124 24/02/09 08:26 >>>
Richard,
Thank you for your help with ANPR.
On the airship, can we fix a date (no really!) for when it will be here. Then I could write out to a
range of partners inviting them to come down and look at it and its operation?
If we had it for a week, we could do it at the end when we had something to show. Are we still ok
to use this to link the equipment on the airship to the FCC?
On a different note, did the helikite even get off the ground - so to speak!
Allyn Thomas.
CInsp Watson to ACC Thomas
>>> Richard WATSON CH INSP 7470 26/02/09 10:09 >>>
Do you have CCTV on my office??? Your timing is uncanny...
I was due and have met with Martin Salmons this morning for our regular update.
The small helikite is up and running. It is held at present at Leybourne but will be based at
Stamford,(J11 M20) or Farthing Corner so easily accessible to us. The contact is Martin or Chris
Clifford (Ex Traffic PC) I have put a couple of pictures in the post to you to illustrate its use, I have
to say the images are quite impressive. There is an amusing story around one of the pictures
which I will explain in a note attached to it.
The larger version has been more problematic than was originally expected. However, there are
now in a firmer position having developed the new camera set up and PTZ (How to remotely move
the camera once in the air). Trials will be taking place at a secret location XXXXXXXXXXXXX* to
test the equipment. The delays have not been helped by the weather (not directly in flying the
kite but diverting his resources to maintenance of the road network)
Martin will keep me informed as to how it is progressing and has invited me along to the trial at
the end of March.
In order to ensure operational use of this equipment, when I take up my post in the FCC, I will
arrange for a menu of equipment available through Martin which extends to mobile CCTV, portable
signage and the helikite and the necessary communication to the potential users (RPU, TSU etc)
In relation to the Airship I am meeting with two people from BAE for a 'sensor study' on Tuesday
3rd March. We have been in conversation with CAA (through Paul Marrion from Essex Air Support)
to propose the use and they are receptive to the idea although mindful of the need for the
technical certification to be proven at the earliest stage. I will make enquires as to the stage of
development on Tuesday and report back to you. Andy Mellors is fully aware of our eagerness to
34
show this to the partnership and anyone else who may be interested. The mandate from the
national UAV group was gratefully received by Richard and Andy.
Richard
* Exempt under Section 43(1) Commercial Interests (Trade secret)
Reply from ACC Thomas
From: Jane BRAZIER PSE 52124
To: WATSON CH INSP 7470, Richard <[email address]>
Sent: 27/02/2009 09:46:28
Subject: Re: Airship
Richard,
Lots of good progress! With you in the FCC you are perfectly placed to develop the sensor linkage
into our systems
Do you know whether we have got the H.A. cameras linked into our network yet or is this
something that traffic were doing?
Allyn Thomas.
CInsp Watson to ACC Thomas From:
Richard WATSON CH INSP 7470
To:
BRAZIER PSE 52124, Jane
Date:
27/02/09 09:56
Subject:
Re: Airship
Having spoken to Martin i don't believe it has been achieved. It may be subject to the return of
the FCC to their building. I will continue to liaise with Martin and can work from within once in the
FCC.
R
35
Text of E-Mail Exchange Between Paul Marrion (Cambs, Essex and Suffolk Police Air
Support) and Rick Newson/ Tony Eagles (Civil Aviation Authority), forwarded to CInsp
Watson, Kent Police - on the subject of UAV licensing and permissions (Nov 2008 –
March 2009)
E-mail from Cambs, Essex and Suffolk Police Air Support to CAA (1)
From: Paul Marrion [mailto:[email address]]
Sent: Tue 11/11/2008 11:45
To: Newson Rick
Cc: Richard WATSON T/CH INSP 7470; [email address]
Subject: UAV Proposal [RESTRICTED]
Classification: RESTRICTED
Dear Rick,
Following our conversation of last week can I ask that you please consider and distribute as
appropriate the following conceptual proposal in relation to the testing and possible future
operational use, within a policing environment, of the GA22 UAV platform.
Following discussions with BAE Systems it has been identified that the GA22 may fulfil a useful
operational policing function at large public events. In particular Essex Police are responsible for
policing the Virgin (V) festival at Hylands Park just outside Chelmsford each August and it is
perceived that the GA22 may have a role to play in such an event.
The GA22 is currently in the approval process for remote operation with a longer term objective
for fully autonomous operations. It is possible that both of the above objectives could be tested,
evidenced and progressed at the V event subject to relevant approval.
The general proposal is that the GA22 be tested, possibly at Boreham Airfield then again at the V
Festival site prior to the actual event. If successful in testing then the GA22 be deployed
operationally at the event itself under whatever constraints and controls are required under any
approval.
I have been deliberately non specific above as I believe it is only correct to seek the views and
guidance of the Civil Aviation Authority prior to any substantive proposal being drafted.
At this stage I have not discussed this with Essex Police senior management and would envisage
doing so until the considered CAA view is known.
Best regards
Paul Marrion
Inspector/UEO
Cambs, Essex & Suffolk Police
Air Ops/Support Units
01245 451564
36
CAA response to Cambs, Essex and Suffolk Police Air Support (1)
From: Newson Rick
Sent: 12 November 2008 21:53
To: Paul Marrion
Cc: Eagles Tony; XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Subject: RE: UAV Proposal [RESTRICTED]
Thanks Paul,
Tony Eagles has taken over from Chris Finnigan in the coordinating and setting of UAS policy
within the CAA. Please give us a day or two to discuss this and we'll get back to you soonest. It
may be best if we have a meeting, either at Boreham or here at Gatwick.
All the best, Rick
CAA response to Cambs, Essex and Suffolk Police Air Support (2)
From: Eagles Tony [mailto:[email address]]
Sent: 13 November 2008 10:13
To: Newson Rick; Paul Marrion
Cc: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Subject: RE: UAV Proposal [RESTRICTED]
Paul, thanks for the inquiry. In the first instance I draw your attention to CAP 722 which gives
good guidance and information for the operation of UAV’s in the UK. This should give you a good
steer towards such operations and the considerations and safety case that will need to be
established along with all the other factors. The operation of a UAS cuts across most areas of the
CAA but we can and will facilitate the process as best we can. There is also an ACPO UAS working
group I believe who may also be developing useful information regarding the use of UAS by police
units.
CAP 722:
http://www.caa.co.uk/application.aspx?catid=33&pagetype=65&appid=11&mode=detail&id=415
Will pass more information when we have had time to consider your proposal.
Regards
Tony Eagles Manager
Flight Operations Policy (GA)
Safety Regulation Group
UK Civil Aviation Authority
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
37
E-mail from Cambs, Essex and Suffolk Police Air Support to CAA (2)
From: Paul Marrion [mailto:[email address]]
Sent: 23 February 2009 15:21
To: Eagles Tony
Cc: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Subject: RE: UAV Proposal [NOT PROTECTIVELY MARKED]
Classification: NOT PROTECTIVELY MARKED
Dear Tony,
There is a meeting of the South Coast partnership (UAV) on 3rd March. There is now an ACPO link
into this group as you suggest below. Is there any further information you could provide at this
time in order to update the group on the 3rd.
Best regards
Paul Marrion
Inspector/UEO
Cambs, Essex & Suffolk Police
Air Ops/Support Units
01245 451564
CAA response to Cambs, Essex and Suffolk Police Air Support (2)
From: Eagles Tony [mailto:[email address]]
Sent: 24 February 2009 10:20
To: Paul Marrion
Cc: Duncan George; XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Subject: RE: UAV Proposal [NOT PROTECTIVELY MARKED]
Paul I am sorry not to have responded before but have been waiting for some clarification from
other departments and in particular with the progress of airworthiness certification for the GA22
which I know is still ongoing with the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
I understand that there are still some issues with the airworthiness certification of the airship to be
resolved and that this is ongoing between the company and EASA.
Operation of such a machine will require us to be satisfied that the operation can be undertaken
safely and that any condition of the Permit to Fly has been met.
This will require the compilation of a safety case that would undoubtedly include such things as
operating limitations, pilot experience and training, safety measures, actions in event of control
38
failure etc. Depending on the airspace requirements and proximity to other air users there may
also be a need to operate within geographic restrictions and operation at night might be restricted
or prohibited. Consideration for flying within proximity to persons, vehicles, structures and so on
and necessary mitigation will need to be demonstrated.
Once you have developed your safety case and operational procedures, including the pilot training
requirements and meeting any conditions set down in the Permit to Fly, then you should liaise with
my colleague George Duncan for consideration of the application to operate this airship in the
manner described.
Best regards
Tony Eagles E-Mail from Cambs, Essex and Suffolk Police Air Support to CInsp Watson, Kent Police
>>> "Paul Marrion" <[email address]> 05/03/09 08:13 >>>
Classification: NOT PROTECTIVELY MARKED
Hi Richard,
The name at the CAA is George Duncan as below.
Regards
Paul Marrion
Inspector/UEO
Cambs, Essex & Suffolk Police
Air Ops/Support Units
01245 451564
E-Mail from CINSP WATSON to ACC THOMAS
From:
Richard WATSON CH INSP 7470
To:
THOMAS ACC 11490, Allyn
Date:
05/03/09 08:53
Subject:
Fwd: FW: UAV Proposal [NOT PROTECTIVELY MARKED]
Sir
George Duncan will be the recipient of the letter to CAA as discussed.
Many Thanks
Richard
39
Letter from ACC Thomas to George Duncan, Civil Aviation Authority (March 2009)
ALLYN THOMAS
ASSISTANT CHIEF CONSTABLE (SPECIALIST OPERATIONS)
Mr. George Duncan
Direct Line: 01622 652603
FOI(GA)
Fax: 01622 652009
FOD, SRG
Aviation House
E-mail: [email address]
Gatwick Airport South
West Sussex RH6 0YR
Date: 11th March 2009
Dear Mr. Duncan,
I write to ask whether you might be able to assist me in a project I am developing with a range of
public sector and commercial partners.
Perhaps I should start by saying who I am. As you can see I work in Kent Police and I am
responsible for a range of police functions but in particular the policing of the Frontier, Marine
Policing and the Special Branch. In addition to my role in force I am also the lead police officer for
the Police Maritime Portal Zone which extends from Shoreham in East Sussex to Felixstowe in
Suffolk. I am also a member of the South Coast Partnership, which is an association between the
Police, UKBA, XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX, the MCA and BAE Systems. The aim of the partnership is
to develop a different model of air support using Unmanned Aerial Systems. Ultimately this might
lead to the civil use of the Military ‘drones’ such as HERTI, used by the Military but in the shorter
term we are more focussed on the use of lighter than air vessels such as the BAE GA22.
Clearly such a UAS has the potential to provide a far more sustainable and long lasting aerial
platform on which to mount a range of sensors and equipment. Our initial interest was in
monitoring the short sea channel crossing, though clearly this interest has developed after the
terrorist attack in Mumbai. We also recognise that such a system also has considerable potential
in the policing of major events, whether they be protests or the Olympics.
We have got to the stage where we want to test the integration of the sensor systems into police
command and control applications but our progress is at present slow, given that such unmanned
vehicles are unproven technology and need to be properly licensed by yourselves.
I write to seek your support in that there is rather more urgency in the work since Mumbai and we
have a clear deadline of the 2012 Olympics. I would not in any way seek to interfere with the
proper regulation of technology but rather offer you the assurance that this is a genuine
developmental partnership that is keen to see progress in pursuit of objectives around the security
of the national frontiers and related public goods.
Please let me know if I can provide any further information to assist with your regulatory process.
Yours sincerely,
Allyn Thomas.
c.c.
C/Insp. Richard Watson
40
E-Mail exchange concerning proposed visit by CC Hogan-Howe, ACPO portfolio holder
for Air Support Services (March 2009)
E-mail from BAE to SCP
>>> "Mellors, Andrew (UK)" < [email address] > 10/03/09 12:36 >>>
When: 20 April 2009 12:30-16:00 (GMT) Greenwich Mean Time : Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon,
London.
Where: Warton
Dear All
We now have a new date for Chief Constable Bernard Hogan Howe's visit to Warton to find out
more about UAV's and the South Coast Partnership. We will agree an agenda in the next few
weeks but suggestions are welcome. Allan / Richard / Ollie / Vaughan (/ACC Featherstone) - would
you like to attend?
Yours sincerely
Andrew Mellors
Head of Civil Autonomous Systems
Mobile: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
BAE Systems (Operations) Limited
Registered Office: Warwick House, PO Box 87, Farnborough Aerospace Centre, Farnborough,
Hants, GU14 6YU, UK
Registered in England & Wales No: 1996687
E-mail from PA to ACC Thomas to CInsp Watson
-----Original Message-----
From: Allyn THOMAS ACC 11490
To: WATSON CH INSP 7470, Richard < [email address] >
Sent: 12/03/2009 09:30:45
Subject: Fwd: VIP Visit CC Hogan-Howe
Richard,
Are you going to this?
Regards.
Jane.
41
E-Mail reply from CInsp Watson to PA to ACC Thomas
>>> Richard WATSON CH INSP 7470 12/03/09 10:06 >>>
I have accepted the invitation. Does Mr Thomas have any availability? This will be the perfect
opportunity to bring UAVs to a national stage.
R
E-mail from PA to ACC Thomas to CInsp Watson
-----Original Message-----
From: Allyn THOMAS ACC 11490
To: WATSON CH INSP 7470, Richard <[email address]>
Sent: 12/03/2009 10:20:34
Subject: Re: Fwd: VIP Visit CC Hogan-Howe
Richard,
He does have something already in the diary but I just need to check if it is something he needs to
attend.
Regards.
Jane.
E-Mail reply from CInsp Watson to PA to ACC Thomas
From:
Richard WATSON CH INSP 7470
To:
THOMAS ACC 11490, Allyn
Date:
12/03/09 10:22
Subject:
Re: Fwd: VIP Visit CC Hogan-Howe
Not necessarily needs to attend but his presence gives weight to what we are trying to do, in
additioin to what I can bring Mr T will speak around the CT dimension with such clarity
R
42
E-Mail from Northants Police Inspector Vaughan Clarke to Home Office and ACC
Thomas (July 2009)
From:
"Clarke Vaughan" <[email address]>
To:
"Alan Brooke" <[email address]>, "Allyn Thomas"
Date:
05/07/09 13:39
Subject:
SoR for sub 7kg UAS
Attachments: SoR draft2.doc
Gentlemen
Please find attached the Statement of Requirement (SoR) final draft for sub 7kg UAS.
Please take a look at it prior to the steering group meeting. If there are no amendments required
and the group agrees this at the meeting, the document can be published and disseminated to the
industry.
Many thanks <<SoR draft2.doc>>
Vaughan Clarke
Inspector, Northern Area
Northamptonshire Police
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Mobex 6278
43
Attached ACPO Statement of Requirements document.
Association of Chief Police Officers
Statement of Requirement (SoR) for small
UAS for close air support to standard BCU
operations
44
1.
Introduction
1.1
The Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) recognises that Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
represent an emerging tactic in the fight against crime and disorder.
1.2
ACPO also recognises that there are numerous policing requirements that could be serviced by UAS,
and that no single airframe, software package or video downlink capability is likely to meet all of
those requirements simultaneously. As a consequence, different SoR’s will be issued to meet those
operational demands.
1.3
This SoR is specifically aimed at the category of sub 7kg UAS, with a view to steering industry
towards developing a suitable platform that will provide close air support, to officers on the ground,
in a typical array of standard operational policing scenarios.
1.4
No document of this sort could possibly cater for every possible policing scenario, where the use of
UAS could be a consideration, but what ACPO have tried to capture from the police community in
producing this SoR is a common understanding of the features that a system should have in order to
facilitate ease of use, safety, practicality, efficiency and operational effectiveness.
1.5
This document should not be read as a set of minimum standards. Instead it should be interpreted as
a guideline in terms of considerations for what the technology should deliver. Forces are free to
specify different criteria when procuring systems, dependant on their local needs, and industry is
encouraged to continue to innovate and move beyond the technical capabilities laid out in this
document.
1.6
Where criteria have been specified below, a practical example of a typical deployment has been
given at Appendix A to illustrate the type of scenario where some of those criteria might be useful.
1.7
Where a criteria is defined, ACPO does not wish to be prescriptive in the technical solution for that,
and where appropriate alternatives are available they may be considered equally acceptable.
1.8
UAS suppliers who can produce units that meet these specifications can apply for ACPO
accreditation for those units. In order to achieve this, they will be expected to provide a unit for a
suitable period of time, for testing, at no cost to the police or HOSDB.
Number
Criteria
Explanation
1
Easy launch capability
Any small police UAS will be expected to take off in a timely
and straightforward manner.
2
Auto-tracking of operator
Upon launching the unit, it will be expected to communicate
with, and monitor the GPS location of the operator at all times.
The initial flight phase, as a default setting, will be for the unit to
hover above (if rotary wing) or cone around (fixed wing) the
operator at a fixed height selected by the operator. The unit will
fly in this mode until further input from the operator.
Should the operator move, the unit will be expected to maintain a
position immediately overhead, unless otherwise instructed.
3
Resilience to wind and The unit will be expected to be operational in wind-speeds up to
weather
and including 25 knots. The unit will be expected to operate in
light to moderate precipitation above 6°C, and in dry conditions
down to -6°C.
4
Minimum flying time
The unit shall fly for a minimum of 45 minutes between battery
45
changes
5
Continuous operation
The unit shall have the capability to maintain a continuous
airborne presence, other than when batteries are being changed.
Sufficient batteries and charging capability (operational from a
vehicle-based power source) shall be provided to enable this.
6
Rotor protection
Rotary wing units shall have some means of preventing rotor
strike. This can be in the form of a physical guard that prevents
the rotors from hitting third party objects, such as a building or
tree, or may be achieved by electronic sensors. In either scenario,
where the unit encounters such an obstruction, it is expected that
it will maintain flight.
7
Auto-return to operator
The unit shall fly automatically to the last known GPS co-
ordinates of the operator if it loses signal with the ground station,
if it’s signal is jammed, or if the battery level falls to a critical
level.
8
GPS transmission
The unit will continue to broadcast its GPS location when
grounded
9
Audible location alarm
The unit will sound an audible tone and flash an LED or other
light, when commanded by the operator.
10
Bore
sight
GPS The software shall display to the operator the latest GPS position
identification
of the unit itself AND the GPS position on the ground (to a
reasonable degree of accuracy) which represents the location that
the camera is aimed at.
11
Altitude adjustments
The unit shall fly at a pre-set altitude, selected by the operator, in
increments of 50 feet. It shall also be operable at any height
between these flight levels upon command by the operator.
12
Camera Configuration
The unit shall be supplied with a digital colour video camera,
with a minimum of 25x optical zoom, and a thermal imaging
camera, to be interchangeable by the operator.
13
Camera
control
and The operator shall be able to remotely pan, tilt and zoom the
autonomous flight.
camera assembly. Whilst the operator is so engaged, it is
expected that the unit will maintain flight autonomously.
14
Microphone
The unit shall be fitted with a microphone, and be capable of
broadcasting the audio signal to the operator on the ground.
15
Video downlink
The unit will be capable of broadcasting live video to the
operator.
16
Digital Video Recorder
The unit shall record video to an on-board Digital Video
Recording medium that contains no moving parts (e.g. video data
card). The on-board video storage shall be of sufficient capacity
to record the entire flight duration at the minimum level of
compression (i.e. at the highest quality setting) and shall be
accessible to hot-swap with a replacement medium, in a timely
fashion, when replacing the power pack.
17
Operator Screen
The interface for the control of the unit, and viewing the live
46
video stream shall be presented on a screen which is effective in
bright sunlight (e.g. 1500 nits) or by the provision of other
solutions that enable effective use in such meteorological
conditions. Where solutions other than a bright screen are
offered, they will not be acceptable if they significantly reduce
the situational awareness of the operator – such as a hood that
takes away the operator’s peripheral vision.
18
Camera on Target
When aimed at a specific location on the ground, the camera will
maintain its position irrespective of movements and adjustments
in the pitch and roll of the airframe. It is vital, in terms of the
effectiveness of such units, that video evidence is not
compromised in court, because of the inability of the technology
to maintain camera on target. Equally, it is essential from the
operator’s perspective that moving targets, such as a suspect on
foot, are not lost because the FoV (field of view) of the camera is
constantly moving relative to its horizon.
19
Transportation
When not in use the unit shall be transported in one or more
ruggedised protective cases that can fit into the luggage area of a
typical estate car or car-derived van.
47
Appendix A
A typical operational scenario
In the town of Sandford, Sgt Smith is on night shift, due to finish duty at 7am. Sandford is in an area not
covered by a police air support unit, but the force does own a UAS which is deployed in a ‘Traffic’ vehicle
based out of the Protective Services Command (PSC).
Sgt Smith’s team has been allocated a task to effect the arrest of a local drug-dealer and prolific offender,
Dale HOLLER who is wanted for failing to appear at Crown Court for Aggravated Burglary. HOLLER is
violent, knows he is wanted and is likely to attempt an escape if challenged.
Sgt Smith has pulled together a team of four officers to undertake the arrest of HOLLER, at his home
address of 68 Prospect Ave, Sandford. He has also requested the presence of a police dog & handler and the
force UAS unit to provide close air support to the operation. A particular problem with the location of
HOLLER’s address is that it is very difficult to gain access to the rear of the premises. HOLLER is known to
sleep in his clothes next to a window at the rear of the house and has escaped from the rear of the property on
previous occasions over a flat roof and through adjoining gardens into an area of scrubland nearby.
The plan is that a rapid entry will be made through the front door of the property at 6am. At the same time,
the UAS will be deployed to the rear of the property, with the camera trained on the rear of the house, so that
if HOLLER does escape, he can be tracked from the air until such time as a dog handler and other units can
be called in.
At 5am, the UAS operator, PC Ainge, arrives at the junction of Prospect Avenue and Main Road. The
location is a typical urban scene with numerous dwellings, mainly 1930’s semi detached. The junction
consists of a T-Junction surrounded by large tri-angular shaped grass-covered areas about 20 metres across,
and PC Ainge has identified this as the launch site for the UAS, which is a rotary-wing unit. At this time of
the morning, the area is extremely quiet and the only thing moving, other than a few cats, is PC Ainge.
His intention, in arriving early, is to conduct a dynamic risk assessment for the launch of the UAS, and to
undertake a site survey, to identify any risks to the use of the equipment. He is in possession of a map of the
area that shows that there are no hazards above 100 feet, but in line with standard operating procedures he
needs to conduct a visual audit of the area.
He parks his vehicle nearby and gets out on foot. The first thing he notes is that the weather conditions are
good. Dawn is breaking and there is a light breeze from the south west. Cloud cover is high and light and an
earlier check of the Met-Office rainfall radar on the internet had shown that there is no precipitation within
100 miles. He will later use an anemometer before launching the unit, but experience tells him that the
breeze is no more than 10 knots, well below the limits of the system.
He walks to the centre of one of the grass-covered areas, observes that there is a lack of any airborne
obstructions and then walks the 400 metres to HOLLER’s address, noting that there are numerous
obstructions below the build-height of the properties, such as telephone cables, trees and shrubs, lamp posts
and so on. Above the build line the airspace is clear other than for some mature trees in Prospect Avenue
which he estimates to be around 25 feet higher than the properties. He makes a decision to fly the unit at 150
feet.
His plan is to launch the unit as the other officers arrive at around 6am. It will be flown in its default launch
setting, whereby it will climb vertically to the selected height, and will remain immediately above the
operator, following him when he moves. Once PC Ainge starts walk along Prospect Avenue, the unit will
follow him, until he directs it to go to a position to the rear of HOLLER’s house at which point the on-board
colour video camera will be trained on the rear of the premises. In the meantime, the dog handler will take up
a position adjacent to the nearby scrubland.
48
The launch goes as planned, and with the other officers PC Ainge walks along the street. About 50 metres
prior to HOLLER’s address he selects a point on a map, on the video interface, where he directs the unit to
fly to. Once there he trains the camera on the rear of the target property and starts receiving the live video.
He selects an appropriate zoom setting for the camera and puts some crosshairs into the centre of the video
image. The software starts to indicate the GPS co-ordinates of the unit and the GPS co-ordinates of the point
on the ground represented by the cross-hairs.
As expected, as the front door goes in, the suspect appears out of an upstairs window, onto a flat roof, and
jumps down into an adjacent garden. PC Ainge is able to control the pan & tilt of the camera which is not
affected by the movements of the airframe as it adjusts for variations in the strength of the breeze. The
suspect jumps over a number of fences and into a nearby footpath, towards the dog-handler’s location. As the
suspect is running, PC Ainge selects a flight mode that maintains a constant distance between the GPS co-
ordinates of the unit and the target. This results in the unit flying at a constant distance behind the suspect.
After around 40 seconds, the suspect emerges into the area of scrubland and is challenged and arrested by the
dog-handler.
PC Ainge then instructs the unit to return to his location. Once above him, he then walks back to the launch
area and lands the unit. He will later transfer the video of the incident from the on-board DVR to a server
based in his office.
End
49
Reply from ACC Thomas (via PA) to Insp Clarke (Northants Police)
From:
Jane BRAZIER PSE 52124
To:
Vaughan, Clarke
Date:
07/07/09 11:49
Subject:
UAS Steering Group
Attachments: UAS Steering group.rtf; UAV Briefing document final draft.doc
Dear Vaughan,
Thank you for the range of papers.
Looks like we have a very similar interest in UASs. I guess my focus now is on the full size
vehicles but I recognise the value in all options in the right circumstances. Looking forward to
meeting you.
Regards.
Allyn Thomas.
Attachment to previous E-mail (Agenda to UAS Steering group briefing)
Agenda: ACPO UAS Steering Group
1400 Hours, Monday July 13th 2009
Lecture Theatre, Police Headquarters, Wootton Hall, Northampton
Welcome & Introduction
ACC Featherstone
Presentation, West Midlands Fire Service use of UAS (15mins)
Pat Mika
Presentation, cutting edge uses for UAS (5mins)
Vaughan Clarke
Minutes of previous meeting
ACC Featherstone
Matters arising
All
CAA update
Gerry Corbett
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXX
South Coast Partnership
Richard Watson
UAS Governance
Vaughan Clarke
AOB
All
Date of next meeting
50
E-Mail Exchange re SCP Meeting (July 2009)
E-mail from BAE systems to ACC Thomas
>>> "Mellors, Andrew (UK)" <[email address]> 03/07/09 17:18 >>>
Allyn
Great to see you and Richard again yesterday. I thought the symposium was really good, covering
a good range of subjects and getting some good discussions going.
To pick up on just one of those strands we discussed yesterday; we agreed that we needed to
arrange a date for the next SCP meeting. I would be interested in finding out your availability and
thoughts around location. As you know we are always happy to host everyone in Warton and had
initially thought around the middle of September (w/c 14th). If any of the dates are convenient
then please let me know otherwise other suggestions are welcomed.
The topics that I feel we could cover include;
Status of ACPO Air Support Strategy, GA22 Major Events Introduction Programme, MFA/MCA
Tender Programme, Covert Surveillance Interest
Status of requirements capture and business model development
Status of current UAV Programmes and new products
Brainstorming of potential demo activities in 2010 with XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Let me know on your thoughts and we can get the arrangements kicked off.
Yours sincerely
Andrew Mellors
Head of Business Development Security & Civil
Mobile: +XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
BAE Systems (Operations) Limited
Registered Office: Warwick House, PO Box 87, Farnborough Aerospace Centre, Farnborough,
Hants, GU14 6YU, UK
Registered in England & Wales No: 1996687
E-Mail from ACC Thomas to CInsp Watson
>>> Allyn THOMAS ACC 11490 06/07/09 07:40 >>>
Richard, what do you think? It may be a bit of a tall order to refresh the meeting membership and
get them to Lancashire. Perhaps if we can meet we can then invite people to go on a trip?
Allyn
51
E-Mail from Cinsp Watson to PA to ACC Thomas
From:
Richard WATSON CH INSP 7470
To:
BRAZIER PSE 52124, Jane
Date:
17/07/09 08:43
Subject:
Fwd: Next SCP Meeting
Jane
I want to identify a date probably early September when we can convene the partnership for a
meeting. Can you give me some possibilities from Mr T's diary.8th to 10th September looks fairly
good for me.
R
52
E-Mail from CAA to Inspector Clarke (Northants Police) and ACC Thomas containing
forwarded press cuttings
From:
"Corbett Gerry" <[email address]>
To:
"Clarke Vaughan" <[email address]>, allyn.thomas
Date:
17/08/09 13:47
Subject:
FW: Press Summary - Police use of UAV’s
Attachments: 17.08.2009Trade.pdf
Vaughan, Allyn,
I just thought that I'd point out the second story in the list below in case you had not become
aware of it. The full internet article can be found here (hope the link works), although I'm not sure
how/if it appeared in the printed newspaper.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1206618/Extremist-banned-entering-UK-BNP-f
estival.html
The CAA's 'toy' classification and the 'smart water squirter' comments obviously leap out at you.
As these comments come at the end of the web article, I suspect that they are just some sort of
'filler' made up by the writers of the piece (having seen the web article, the extract below may be
slightly mis-quoted itself, and I also have my doubts about the 2 out of 4 rotors claim), but can
you confirm whether or not any Police operated UAS possesses a smart water capability?
I'd also be interested if you know which Police Force's system would have been used, and whether
or not one of their spokespersons may have given out the 'toy' comment? On the subject of the
regulation of small UAVs, the CAA has now issued a Letter of Intent regarding the changes to the
Air Navigation Order, and (hopefully) a link to the letter is attached below for your information
http://www.caa.co.uk/default.aspx?catid=1350&pagetype=90&pageid=9644
Gerry
G J CORBETT
Lt Cdr RN
ORA4
Directorate of Airspace Policy
Civil Aviation Authority
CAA House
45-59 Kingsway
LONDON
WC2B 6TE
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
E-mail: [email address]
53
(Forwarded CAA E-Mail)
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Subject:
FW: Press Summary
From:
CAA Press Office
Sent:
17 August 2009 08:30
To: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Subject: Press Summary
Press Summary 17 August 2009
17.08.2009Trade.pdf
Monday 17 August
National
High-speed north-south rail route would emit more CO2 than air travel, report says
By: Dan Milmo
A study by Booz Allen Hamilton, a consultancy, argues that building and operating a new north-south rail
network in England will generate more CO2 than taking the same route by air over a 60-year period. High
Speed Two, the company established by Lord Adonis to draw up plans for a north-south link, will submit its
own report, including an environmental study, at the end of the year.
The Guardian, p.23, 17/08/2009
Police spy in the sky buzzes BNP summer party
By: Jaya Narain; Colin Fernandez
Police trying to ensure a BNP festival passed off peacefully used a remote-controlled 'spy drone' to monitor
potential clashes. It is so small it is classified as a toy by the Civil Aviation Authority, so operators don't need
a licence to fly it ÷ It can be fitted with a night vision camera and loudspeaker ÷ Some have a jet that fires
'smart water' - which carries a unique chemical marker - to tag suspects ÷ The drones have four sets of
rotors but can fly on two ÷ Top speed is 15mph, usual operating height is 160ft-220ft
* Note: This e-mail contained a variety of further press cuttings on numerous stories related to air travel. However, as
they are not relevant or pertinent to this subject they have been removed.
54
E-Mail from BAE systems to Police and Partner Agency Representatives re SCP meeting
(Sept 2009)
From: "Harrison, Samantha (UK)" <[email address]>
To:"Richard WATSON CH INSP 7470" <[email address]>, "Chalk, Glen"
<[email address]>, <[email address]>,
<[email address]>, <Kieran.O'[email address]>,
<[email address]>, <[email address]>,
<[email address]>, "Dismore Oliver" <[email address]>,
<[email address]>, <[email address]>,
<[email address]>, <[email address]>, <[email address]>,
<[email address]>, <[email address]>
CC: "Mellors, Andrew (UK)" <[email address]>, <[email address]>,
<[email address]>, XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Date: 22/09/09 10:19
Subject: Invitation to South Coast Partnership Stakeholders Meeting Kent Police HQ Thurs 8th Oct
Dear All,
You are invited to attend the next South Coast Partnership (SCP) stakeholder's meeting which will be held at
Kent Police Headquarters, Maidstone on 8th October 2009.
The meeting will be chaired by ACC A Thomas and commence 10.30 until 14.00. The aim of the day is to
provide you with an update of progress of SCP related activities and an opportunity to discuss joint future
plans and potential UAS demonstration activities in 2010. A draft agenda is given below;
10.30 - 10.40
Introduction
Chair
10.40 - 11.00
SCP Maritime Update
BAE Systems
11.00 - 11.30
Status of current UAS programmes and New
BAE Systems
Products
11.30 - 12.00
Proposed Introduction programme for GA22
ACPO UAV Sub Committee
Policing Major Events
12.00 - 12.30
Brainstorming of potential demonstration
activities in 2010
12.30 - 13.00
LUNCH
13.00 - 13.30
Status of ACPO Police Air Support Strategy
Kent Police / HO
13.30 - 13.45
Business Model developments
BAE Systems
13.45 - 14.00
Wash up
If you would like to attend, please could respond back to me via return e-mail and I will co-ordinate
numbers with Kent.
I will confirm arrangements closer to the time, but please do not hesitate to contact me with any queries.
Look forward to seeing everyone in Maidstone.
55
Best Regards
Samantha
Samantha Harrison
Delivery Manager - South Coast Partnership
Autonomous Systems & Future Capability
Warton Aerodrome W427A, Preston, Lancs PR4 1AX, UK
+44 (0)1772 858750 (Phone Number)
+XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX (Mobile Number)
[email address]
<mailto:[email address]>
BAE Systems (Operations) Limited
Registered Office: Warwick House, PO Box 87, Farnborough Aerospace
Centre, Farnborough, Hants, GU14 6YU, UK
Registered in England & Wales No: 1996687
Follow-Up E-Mail from BAE Systems to Police and Partner Agency Representatives re
SCP meeting (Sept 2009)
From:
"Harrison, Samantha (UK)" <[email address]>
To:
"Chalk, Glen" <[email address]>, "Hulbert, Keith (Det Na...
CC:
"Richard WATSON CH INSP 7470" <[email address]>, <jane...
Date:
07/10/09 18:35
Subject:
South Coast Partnership Meeting
Dear All,
Just to confirm the SCP meeting tomorrow, 8th October at Kent Police HQ between 10.30 - 14.00.
Please could you aim to arrive at the HQ reception around 10.00am and book in and obtain parking permit
etc. Richard Watson will meet us there and escort us to the meeting room.
Address is:
Kent Police Head Quarters,
Sutton Rd,
Maidstone, Kent, ME15 9BZ
10.30 - 10.40
Introduction
Chair
10.40 - 11.00
SCP Maritime Update
BAE Systems
11.00 - 11.30
Status of current UAS programmes and New
BAE Systems
Products
11.30 - 12.00
Proposed Introduction programme for GA22
ACPO UAV Sub Committee
Policing Major Events
12.00 - 12.30
Brainstorming of potential demonstration
activities in 2010
12.30 - 13.00
LUNCH
56
13.00 - 13.30
Status of ACPO Police Air Support Strategy
Kent Police / HO
13.30 - 13.45
Business Model developments
BAE Systems
13.45 - 14.00
Wash up
Look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow
Regards
Sam
Samantha Harrison
Delivery Manager - South Coast Partnership
Autonomous Systems & Future Capability
Warton Aerodrome W427A, Preston, Lancs PR4 1AX, UK
+44 (0)1772 858750 (Phone Number)
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX (Mobile Number)
[email address]
<mailto:[email address]>
BAE Systems (Operations) Limited
Registered Office: Warwick House, PO Box 87, Farnborough Aerospace
Centre, Farnborough, Hants, GU14 6YU, UK
Registered in England & Wales No: 1996687
57
E-Mail from BAE Systems to ACC Thomas (Oct 2009)
From:
"Mellors, Andrew (UK)" <[email address]>
To:
"Allyn THOMAS ACC 11490" <[email address]>
Date:
09/10/09 14:14
Subject:
SCP Meeting
Allyn
Many thanks for your kind hospitality yesterday for the South Coast Partnership Meeting and your time on
Tuesday. I understand the speed and scale of activity at the moment and so really appreciate your
commitment to our relationship. I would like to take you up on the offer to brief my senior managers so will
try and get some dates from them and liaise
with Jane.
Can I also extend my thanks for Richard Watson's time and effort, without which I don't think as much
progress would have been made, and I hope that he is able to continue to make a substantial contribution
to these activities in to the future.
I hope your meeting with Alex Marshall on Monday goes well and your travel to Exeter is a clear run. We will
confirm back via Ollie that Dave Kershaw (my boss) and I will be attending the session on the 30th October
in Hampshire. Dave and I are attending an RAF Band concert in London that night and wondered if you were
interested in joining us as
our guest, the invite is open for your wife as well if she would be interested. Let me know if you are
interested and I will let you have some more details.
Yours sincerely
Andrew
Andrew Mellors
Head of Business Development Security & Civil
Autonomous Systems and Future Capability
Mobile: +44 (0)7801 716207
BAE Systems (Operations) Limited
Registered Office: Warwick House, PO Box 87, Farnborough Aerospace
Centre, Farnborough, Hants, GU14 6YU, UK
Registered in England & Wales No: 1996687
********************************************************************
This email and any attachments are confidential to the intended
recipient and may also be privileged. If you are not the intended
recipient please delete it from your system and notify the sender.
You should not copy it or use it for any purpose nor disclose or
distribute its contents to any other person.
********************************************************************
58
E-Mail from BAE Systems to Police and Partner Agency Representatives following SCP
meeting (Nov 2009)
From:
"Mellors, Andrew (UK)" <[email address]>
To:
<[email address]>
CC:
"Dismore Oliver" <[email address]>, "Allyn THOMAS ACC
11490" <[email address]>, "Richard WATSON CH INSP 7470"
<[email address]>
Date:
13/11/09 08:38
Subject:
National Air Operations Strategy
Attachments: Alex Marshall - Letter requesting further contact Nov 09.doc
Barry
Many thanks for your hospitality on the 30th October. I have attached a letter for Mr Marshall to
express our interest in the programme, and asking for a chance to discuss things further when it is
practical.
I would be interested in getting a copy of the presentation that was used at the briefing so that we
could bring more of our management team up to speed with the situation.
I would also be interested in your views about a more comprehensive NDA to allow us to talk to a
number of the stakeholders that would be involved in the future; incumbent service providers,
original equipment manufacturers etc. and how after the initial discussion you are planning to
make best use of the industrial input. We would be interested in more data to help analyse the
opportunities for savings etc and so would like to discuss how this could be made available.
If we can be of any further help then please don't hesitate to contact us.
Yours sincerely
Andrew Mellors
Head of Business Development Security & Civil
Autonomous Systems & Future Capability
Mobile: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
BAE Systems (Operations) Limited
Registered Office: Warwick House, PO Box 87, Farnborough Aerospace
Centre, Farnborough, Hants, GU14 6YU, UK
Registered in England & Wales No: 1996687
59
BAE letter to CC Marshall (Nov 2009)
Your Ref:
CC/BT/smg
CC Alex Marshall
National Police Air Operations - Strategy
Hampshire Police HQ
Winchester
Hants SO22 5DB
Dear Mr Talbot
Follow up to the National (Police) Aviation Service Meeting on 30th October 2009
Thank you for inviting BAE Systems to the briefing event on 30th October and for outlining your
concept of a national aviation service. BAE Systems found the event very interesting and we look
forward to working with you and your team in understanding the issues and postulating a solution
that will deliver a more effective and capable police service.
We look forward to understanding what role we can play within the implementation of the strategy
and hope we can help facilitate any cross industry input that is required.
Through our work with the South Coast partnership, over the last two years, we have gained a
good understanding of police operations and requirements. In addition we have considerable
experience of service based contracting through the work we have done with MoD and believe we
can add value to a range of service based approaches from a ‘police owned’ service to one that is
fully ‘out sourced’ to providers.
Recognising the demanding timescales that you are working to we would like to meet with you and
your team as soon as practical to discuss how we might become more involved in the process.
We hope that something can be arranged soon to keep the momentum going of what will be a
fundamental change to air support for the Police.
Yours sincerely
Andrew Mellors
Head of Business Development – Security
Autonomous Systems & Future Capability
BAE Systems (Operations) Limited
W392D Warton Aerodrome
Preston, Lancashire PR4 1AX
Mobile: XXXXXXXXXXX
Email: [email address]
60
6. APPENDICES
This document is accompanied by three appendices, representing information
previously refused under the Section 43 exemption and released following a review.
Appendix 1 – The content of a powerpoint briefing presentation on the GA22 airship produced by
Lindstrand technologies, a vehicle being considered as a possible platform for related technology.
Appendix 2 – The GA 22 Operational User Requirements document.
Appendix 3 – A powerpoint presentation briefing created by BAE in relation to a separate project,
provided to the SCP to provide background information.
61
