Just a quick note on an idea that’s been bothering me.
How about a mini semi autonomous police surveillance helicopter?
Would cheaper than a real helicopter, but still offers many of the advantages of having an eye in the sky that can go direct to the scene without contending with traffic etc.
Something like a electric model helicopter with 2+ blades for stability, with a petrol generator for longer run times.
Electronics and gyros to make it naturally stable, and a gps & altimeter for auto navigation.
Carrying a payload of normal and infrared cameras for information gathering.
Transmitting a live video feed over long range radio, and offering long distance control, so it could be controlled centrally by an operator.
I reckon these could be produced for a few thousand pounds each and provide excellent assistance to the force.