*** Download vision of drone patrols and interview with RPAS Operations Superintendent Brendan Kosmer here and stills here
The Australian Border Force (ABF) has deployed Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) to Operation LEEDSTRUM in the Kimberley Marine Park (KMP), Western Australia to help combat illegal foreign fishing.
The addition of drones enhances surveillance capabilities as they provide greater range across patrol areas that are difficult or dangerous to access by traditional methods due to thick vegetation such as mangroves, fast moving or shallow water such as tidal creeks, and predatory animals such as crocodiles.
Operating with advanced optics and sensors, the drones can be flown by both day and night, providing real-time vision that helps ABF officers identify illegal fishing activity, abandoned camps and equipment hiding spots.
The deployment is part of a broader RPAS rollout across northern Australia, which includes recent integration into Operation LUNAR in the Northern Territory.
RPAS complement existing enforcement measures to protect Australia's maritime resources, which include aerial surveillance, patrol boats, land patrols and community engagement.
ABF Commander Ranjeev Maharaj said RPAS technology represents a force multiplier.
"Western Australia's coastline is vast and remote with thousands of kilometres to patrol. RPAS helps us extend our surveillance footprint and improve officer safety, working alongside our other assets and partnerships to deliver results."
RPAS Operations Superintendent Brendan Kosmer said drone technology is already proving its value.
"It's about a smarter approach using innovative technology, not replacing existing patrols. RPAS enhances officer safety and efficiency by allowing us to monitor inaccessible areas and gather intelligence without putting crews at risk," SUPT Kosmer said.
Established in December 2023, Operation LEEDSTRUM is a multi-agency taskforce led by the ABF to combat illegal foreign fishing in the KMP.
Operation LEEDSTRUM complements Operation LUNAR, which has been working successfully since December 2024 in the NT, and the long-running Border Monitoring Officer Program operating in the Torres Strait.
