U.S. Coast Guard Deploys Autonomous Sail Drones on Lake Erie for Search-and-Rescue, Environmental Response and Border Security

U.S. Coast Guard launched them in May for the first time in the Great Lakes.

U.S. Coast Guard staff monitor around the clock. Staff can also take manual control of the vessels when required. Footage from the cameras is not recorded. "The drones themselves are not meant to surveil or anything like that.

They're just out there for awareness," said Lt. U.S. Coast Guard. " The vessels assist with search and rescue operations, environmental spill response, and law enforcement activities.

Garcia said one function includes helping secure the border and prevent cross-border criminality. U.S. and Canadian agencies, including law enforcement, may gain access to the technology after following proper channels.

U.S. waters. They carry collision-prevention systems that allow them to self-navigate away from other vessels. Garcia advised boaters to stay roughly 100 metres away.

U.S. sail drone program. Craig Macartney, spokesperson for the Canadian Coast Guard, said the partnership between the two services remains critical to maritime security priorities and collaboration across government levels.

Both coast guards participate in the Great Lakes marine security operation, which runs 24 hours a day and includes additional law enforcement agencies at every level of government. The program is seasonal. The drones are removed from the water once ice begins to form.