Bisbee, Ariz. – A new drone pilot program is scheduled to begin in Cochise County, Arizona, as early as September 2025, aiming to strengthen border security operations along the U.S.-Mexico border. The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office officially announced the initiative via its Facebook page, confirming a partnership with North American drone manufacturer Draganfly. The program is designed to boost situational awareness, enhance emergency response, and support law enforcement with advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Draganfly had previously disclosed the collaboration in a June 10 press release.
Draganfly will provide a range of aircraft tailored to mission-specific needs, including long-range fixed-wing drones for persistent border surveillance, AI-enabled quadcopters for rapid deployment, and thermal imaging systems for low-light and search-and-rescue operations. All platforms are built in North America and feature secure data architecture—key for sensitive missions in border zones.
“With Draganfly, we’re investing in reliable, U.S.-aligned technology that helps us act faster and keep our people safe,” said Captain Tim Williams of the Sheriff’s Office. “These systems will expand our response options without adding any cost to our residents.”
Drone Deployment Marks Next Step in Cochise County’s Smart Border Strategy
The program reflects a broader strategy to integrate next-generation tools into daily enforcement workflows. Drone deployment is expected to assist in tracking smuggling activity, locating individuals in distress, and reducing risks to officers in remote and high-threat areas.
Cochise County, located in southeastern Arizona, shares more than 80 miles of border with Mexico and spans over 6,000 square miles of remote, often rugged terrain. The Sheriff’s Office—led by Sheriff Mark Dannels—has gained a reputation for operational innovation, previously incorporating high-resolution camera towers, mobile sensor units, and surveillance radar into its enforcement infrastructure.
The department’s decision to adopt drones is a natural progression, enhancing existing capabilities while expanding aerial coverage and agility.
Partnering for Safety: Draganfly and Cochise County Sheriff Advance Drone Use in Law Enforcement
Founded more than 20 years ago, Draganfly is a pioneer in unmanned aircraft technology with applications in public safety, defense, industrial inspection, and emergency services. The company’s platforms are built for durability and data integrity—qualities essential for deployment in austere or high-stakes environments.
Draganfly’s UAS have been used in Wildfire response, search-and-rescue missions, and public health logistics, including the delivery of medical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Partnering with the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office is a significant step forward for public safety drone adoption,” said Draganfly CEO Cameron Chell. “This program shows how secure, mission-ready UAS platforms can improve outcomes without increasing risk or cost.”
FAA’s Executive Order Fuels Next Generation of U.S. Drone Technology and Security
The launch coincides with renewed federal momentum around domestic drone development. Under a recent executive order, the Federal Aviation Administration has been tasked with expanding beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations, establishing new pilot programs for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft, and accelerating waiver reviews through Artificial Intelligence tools. The directive also emphasizes the need for secure, American-made UAS and streamlining access to spectrum and airspace for qualified platforms.
For Cochise County, the timing couldn’t be better. With support from a trusted U.S. manufacturer and a strong foundation of tech-forward leadership, the Sheriff’s Office is positioned to lead in a new era of drone-enabled public safety.
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