Enhancing Maritime Security with Persistent Sea Surveillance System

V G • Jan 11,2025

Summary:

The Persistent Sea Surveillance System provided advanced aerostat-based surveillance to enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency. By integrating wide-area monitoring capabilities, the solution has significantly reduced illicit activities and improved resource allocation.

Client: 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection ’s Air and Marine Operations (AMO)

Problem Statement: 

The southeastern maritime region of the United States, encompassing Florida and the Caribbean, presents unique security challenges. Known for its busy shipping lanes, recreational boating, and proximity to international waters, this region is a hub of commercial and economic activity. However, its geographic and strategic significance also makes it vulnerable to illicit activities, such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, illegal fishing, and piracy.

To address these concerns, maritime authorities require cutting-edge technology to maintain persistent surveillance and respond rapidly to threats.

 

Results: 

  • Detected 68% of all suspected air smuggling flights approaching the southwest border from Mexico (From FY 2014 through FY 2020). 
  • Increase in Drug Interdictions.
  • Enhanced Search and Rescue.
  • Reduced exploitation of marine resources, aiding local economies and ecosystems.
  • Reduced operational costs for patrols.

AI Solution Overview:

The U.S. Government partnered with TCOM, a recognized leader in persistent surveillance technology, to deploy its 71M strategic-class aerostat systems, renowned for their superior performance and durability compared to competitors. These aerostats, capable of reaching altitudes of up to 15,000 feet (4,600 meters) and providing a radar range of 370 kilometers (200 nautical miles), delivered the range and reliability required by the U.S. Coast Guard and Customs authorities to effectively manage border security operations.

TCOM Persistent Sea Surveillance System employs advanced aerostat platforms with integrated AI-driven technologies:

  1. Persistent Monitoring: Aerostats offer 24/7 surveillance over expansive maritime areas.
  2. Sensor Fusion: AI-powered integration of radar, electro-optical, and infrared sensors for multi-dimensional data collection.

References: 

  1. CASE STUDY: TARS. TCOM PERSISTENT SEA SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM IMPROVES MARITIME SECURITY IN SOUTHEAST REGION NEAR FLORIDA AND THE CARIBBEAN. https://tcomlp.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/TCOM_Case_Study_Sea_TARS-V4.pdf
  2. Tethered Aerostats Platforms. https://tcomlp.com/aerospace-platforms/tethered-aerostats/

  3. Air and Marine Operations Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS). https://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/assets/documents/2021-Aug/TARS_508%20compliant.pdf

Industry: Maritime Security and Defense

Vendor: TCOM

Client: U.S. Customs and Border Protection ’s Air and Marine Operations (AMO)

 

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