Miniature spy helicopter used to hunt pirates

[Jazzy]

It is only seven foot long and weighs just 49lbs but it is the latest weapon in the war on piracy in Africa.



A remote-controlled mini-helicopter, which can fire tasers, grenades and shotgun shells, is being used to track pirates off the Horn of Africa and enforce law on the streets in the US.



Able to reach speeds of 70mph and to record and broadcast footage in real time, the discreet Shadowhawk UAV is proving an effective crime-fighting solution for both police forces and private companies.



American company Vanguard Defense Industries spent three years developing the spy craft. It was awarded a multi-million dollar contract in April to conduct anti-piracy operations off the coast of East Africa for from an oil and gas exploration company.



Watch video: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/ukn...ture-spy-helicopter-used-to-hunt-pirates.html

 

[Evil Eye]

And that's cheaper than using people?

 

[Jazzy]

@EE: It may not be cheaper but at least people aren't putting their lives at risk.

 

[Evil Eye]

Yes, of course. But if they're gonna use 'em to track pirates, I fear it may become very, very costly...