First Responders / Police
Washington County Drone Response
Washington County in Oregon launched a Drone as First Responder trial on Feb. 20, 2026. FAA-licensed pilots fly Skydio X10 drones to gather information for deputies before they arrive. These drones launch from docks in Aloha and operate around 200 feet; they gather real-time video and follow state law, and deputies must not use them to establish probable cause. Additionally, Sheriff Caprice Massey noted that the drone team had 650 deployments in 2025 and said the technology helps responders see more and respond faster, possibly saving lives. After the trial, leaders will review data and decide whether to expand the program county-wide. Read More
Commercial expansion (U.S.)
Aero Velocity and SoftWash Systems Launch Strategic Alliance to Drive 2026 Growth
On Feb. 19, 2026, Aero Velocity and SoftWash Systems announced a strategic alliance. The partnership delivers an integrated drone‑washing solution for cleaning buildings, roofs, and other large structures. Combining Aero Velocity’s UAV platforms with SoftWash’s low‑pressure cleaning technology and biodegradable treatments, the system allows drones to safely wash hard‑to‑reach surfaces and reduces reliance on ladders and scaffolding. Additionally, SoftWash affiliates gain access to advanced drone platforms, while Aero Velocity can expand its ground coverage using SoftWash crews. As a result, the alliance aims to reach the $1 billion exterior‑cleaning market and drive revenue growth in 2026. Read More
U.S. Politics / Regulation
As Dems push for briefing on El Paso incident, experts warn it could be the ‘tip of the iceberg
On Feb. 16, 2026, the FAA temporarily closed El Paso’s airspace after a counter-drone incident. Subsequently, Democratic lawmakers demanded a classified briefing. The Safer Skies Act and Section 130i of the NDAA had recently expanded counter-drone authority to more agencies. Analysts warn that coordination is lacking, so these new powers could create safety risks. Moreover, experts said the El Paso shutdown might be a preview of what to expect as drone usage grows. They urged Congress to ensure that agencies coordinate and share information to avoid unnecessary airspace closures.
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