In a move right out of 1984, Blackwater USA, the security company that has been a major provider of “private contractor” troops and security experts for missions in Iraq, Afghanistan and most recently New Orleans, announced a new phase in their operation.
Starting in December, they will be providing remote controlled drone airships (see blimps) that will be outfitted with state of the art surveillance and detection technology. The airship will be able to hover for days at a time and furnish command centers with real time information about all activities on the ground.
A second generation of airships will follow that will have the capacity to carry tons of payload.
So it appears that in addition to being one of the world’s premier providers of private armies, Blackwater will be moving into the role of becoming the eyes and ears for big brother. This new capacity will allow them to monitor ground activity, direct their mercenaries, and possibly deliver ordinance, all from a remote, secure station.
And who will be looking after those, who will be looking in on us.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 10, 2006
BLACKWATER USA UNVEILS NEW SUBSIDIARY
Blackwater Airships, LLC Is The Newest Addition To The Firm’s Security Portfolio
Moyock, NC – The national security of the United States depends upon innovative and flexible solutions in the global war on terror. Blackwater USA, the world’s premier security, peace and stability operations firm recently unveiled its plans to create a new subsidiary; Blackwater Airships.
Blackwater Airship’s initial focus will be the development and deployment of small remotely piloted airship vehicles (RPAVs) that can operate from 5,000 – 15,000 feet, move and hover, and stay aloft for up to four days. The airships will be equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance and detection equipment that can detect, record, and communicate in real time to friendly forces the movement and activities of terrorists.
Gary Jackson, president of Blackwater USA said, “This project is in keeping with Blackwater’s support of peace and security throughout the world.”
Follow-on phases of the project will include larger airships that will carry tons of payload in support of remote humanitarian and peacekeeping missions. Blackwater, who is already involved in stability operations throughout the world, continues to innovate in support of peace and security, and freedom and democracy everywhere.
The first Blackwater Airship will be available in December 2006.
Blackwater is committed to supporting national and international security policies that protect those who are defenseless and provide a free voice for all. Other Blackwater subsidiaries include: Blackwater Training Center, Blackwater Target Systems, Blackwater Security Consulting, Blackwater Canine, and Raven Development Group. For more information, please visit www.blackwaterusa.com.
cross posted from Manning the Barricades
