The New York Naval Militia’s six-member Unmanned Aerial Surveillance Unit took to the sky for the first time during an exercise at the Camp Smith Training site on Feb. 10, 2025.
This was the final step in completing the training required to fly the Vesper ISR drones, known as UAS in military language, according to Maj. Michael Golden, the officer in charge.
The unit formed in the summer of 2023. The first drone was purchased in 2024, marking the official start-up the unit, Golden explained.
The unit flies the Vesper ISR, made by Vantage Robotics, because this drone specifically meets the Department of Defense guidelines, Golden said.
Shortly after the unit was formed, the six members began crafting the personnel...
03.21.2025 | CORTLANDT MANOR, NEW YORK, US |
Story by Petty Officer 1st Class Stephanie Butler
