Success Stories and Tactics: How Crewed and Uncrewed Aircrafts Can Support Joint Operations

Saturday, October 18, 2025

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM MT

Location: Mile High Ballroom 4AB, Colorado Convention Center

For over a century, crewed aircraft have supported public safety operations, with some of the earliest uses dating back to 1914–1916. Fast forward to 2025, and drones have emerged as a powerful tool for both large and small public safety agencies. After years of debate and adjustment, many agencies across the country have successfully learned to integrate crewed and uncrewed aircraft on the same incident—with impressive results. Presented by the IACP Aviation Committee, this panel will share success stories and tactical insights on how coordinated operations between crewed and uncrewed systems have led to mission success.

Submitter(s)

SK

Steven Katz

Vice President
Flying Lion Inc
Redondo Beach, California, United States

Speaker(s)

CB

Craig Benz

Lieutenant and Chief Pilot
Minnesota State Patrol
St. Paul, Minnesota, United States
Barry Brennan

Police Reserve Officer
Redondo Beach Police Department/Flying Lion
Redondo Beach, California, United States
LS

Lance Scott

Lieutenant
Georgia State Patrol
Kennesaw, Georgia, United States
Don Redmond

Captain (Ret.)
Chula Vista Police Department (CA)
Chula Vista, California, United States