Predator drones on the border. Really?!

[white_wolf]

Did Perry really just say that? It sounds like he's advocating mass murder.

[tridim]

1. Go for the triple wall fence Mittens!

Sponsored by Gillette Razors.

These people are INSANE.

[Motown_Johnny]

2. The Pathfinder would make much more sense, assuming this is surveillance only

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/dryden/news/FactSheets/FS-034-DFRC.html

^snip^


The Pathfinder is a lightweight, solar-powered, remotely piloted flying wing aircraft that is demonstrating the technology of applying solar power for long-duration, high-altitude flight. It is literally the pathfinder for a future fleet of solar-powered aircraft that could stay airborne for weeks or months on scientific sampling and imaging missions.

Solar arrays covering most of the upper wing surface provide power for the aircraft's electric motors, avionics, communications and other electronic systems. Pathfinder also has a backup battery system that can provide power for between two and five hours to allow limited-duration flight after dark.

Pathfinder flies at an airspeed of only 15 to 25 mph. Although pitch control is maintained by the use of tiny elevons on the trailing edge of the wing, turns and yaw control are accomplished by slowing down or speeding up the motors on the outboard sections of the wing.

Pathfinder was designed, built and is operated by AeroVironment, Inc., of Monrovia, Calif., the firm that developed the pioneering Gossamer Penguin and Solar Challenger solar-powered aircraft in the late 1970's and early 1980's.

[OneTenthofOnePercent]

3. Fixed aerostats are a more cost effective (and battle tested) option.

Basically, it's a large helium filled ballon carrying all sorts of military surveillance & communication equipment. They fly at 5000ft and are tethered to a control station. At altitude, with the kind of equipment they have they can see FAR. I'm pretty sure they use dozens of these in iraq/afghanistan. Can't hide from the eyes in the sky. ;)

http://media.defenseindustrydaily.com/images/AIR_LTA_PTDS_Aerostat_lg.jp.