First UK police drone unit launched in Devon, Cornwall and Dorset Published duration 14 July 2017

media caption First police drone unit launched in Devon, Cornwall and Dorset

The first dedicated police drone unit in the UK has been launched.

Devon and Cornwall Police began testing the drones with Dorset Police in 2015, but have now established a permanent unit with three full-time staff.

It is hoped the drones could be used to track suspects in firearm incidents as well as in counter-terrorism operations.

The unit's six drones have already been used to find missing people and gather evidence to secure court convictions.

image caption Some of the drones are fitted with thermal imaging cameras

It is aiming to have 40 officers complete their Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) drone training and up to 18 drones in operation by the start of 2018.

Some of the drones have a police livery and are equipped with zoom cameras and thermal imaging.

As well as crime scene and road searches, the drones will help scour the forces' 600 miles (900km) of coastline and extensive woodlands to help combat wildlife crime.

Ch Supt Jim Nye, who leads the new unit, hopes the team will be able to shape how other forces used drone technology in the future.

"The helicopter isn't always available and you want to have it available for life-threatening situations," he said.

"I think the public would expect that if we can get value for money with a drone over a helicopter, that we do so."

Rules on flying drones

media caption Drones should be flown no higher than 400ft

In November 2016, the UK's drone code was revised and updated to help pilots ensure they fly the gadgets safely. It is: