LAS VEGAS—Drone pilots will now be able to strike targets anywhere in the world from the comfort of their home. Citing increased flexibility for remotely piloted aircraft operators, Defense Press Secretary Charlie Summers unveiled a new telecommuting policy during a conference yesterday.
"As long as the pilot has an internet connection they can operate their drone," said Summers. "On a family vacation? Before you get drunk and sunburned, hook up to the hotel wifi and get a few strikes in."
RPAs such as the MQ-9 Predator have traditionally been operated from a ground control unit, like those at Creech AFB. That required pilots to show up for work—which proved problematic. The new policy allows RPA pilots to fly combat or ISR missions from any computer, tablet, or smart phone.
