Unlawful Destruction Of UAS Draws Criticism From AUVSI

Following the recent television broadcasts showcasing the unlawful destruction of unmanned aerial vehicles in a positive light has received criticism from the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI). Michael Toscano, President & CEO of AUVSI, issued a statement berating the illegal demolition of UAS, saying, “To advocate for people to shoot down any object from U.S. airspace is irresponsible, dangerous and unlawful. Unmanned aerial systems are being designed to serve the public good, such as helping search and rescue officers find missing children, monitor weather and wildlife, provide disaster relief and respond to emergencies, as they did in the Fukushima nuclear crisis in Japan last year”. He added, “The myriad of important uses will be imperiled if they become targets. Meanwhile, the suggestion that Americans take up arms against unmanned aircraft also endangers citizens on the ground”. Toscano also said that AUVSI would welcome civil discussions to protect privacy and the proper uses of UAS’ but “cannot and does not condone violence against technology intended to keep citizens safe while saving taxpayer dollars.”