Recently, some high schools in the U.S. states of Florida and Georgia have begun deploying a security drone named "Black Arrow" to address potential school shooting threats. The system, dubbed the "Campus Guardian Angel," was developed by a startup founded in 2023.
The drone is entirely black and can reach a top speed of 160 kilometers per hour. It normally stays hidden in ceiling-mounted devices for standby and charging, and can be rapidly deployed in emergencies. It is capable of smashing through windows, closing in on attackers, emitting piercing alarms, flashing bright lights, and spraying pepper gel to disrupt and subdue assailants, with all operations carried out by a remote team. The drones typically operate in groups of three for coordinated missions, with a single flight endurance of 10 to 15 minutes, and rely on 3D modeling technology for precise maneuvers.
At present, the project has received funding from local governments and entered the pilot phase. Some parents have also raised funds voluntarily to introduce more of these drones to campuses. However, the technology has sparked controversy. Experts are concerned about its vulnerability to cyberattacks and potential for abuse, as well as the possibility that it may divert resources from basic campus security governance. Discussions are still ongoing regarding the boundaries and ethical issues of its technological application.
