The Florida State Guard is modernizing its aerial capabilities by fitting a recently built-out fleet of rapid response aircraft with AI-enabled smart sensors and automated operator software from Overwatch Imaging.
This investment integrates the TK-7 Smart Sensor and Automated Sensor Operator (ASO) software to facilitate autonomous wide-area search, detection, and mapping. These systems are designed to transform the Guard’s airborne assets into a software-defined platform, reducing operator workload while accelerating decision-making during time-critical missions. The TK-7 sensor provides high-resolution, multispectral imagery used for fire mapping, vehicle and vessel detection, and wide-area situational awareness.
The acquisition is a key component of the Florida State Guard’s growth following its 2022 reactivation as a state-supported civilian volunteer force. The Guard has rapidly established a mission-ready aviation unit, focusing on scalable technology to support public safety and disaster recovery efforts across the state. The ASO software complements these efforts by adding multi-mission autonomy to EO/IR video gimbals, enabling maritime ISR and multipoint observation.
Greg Davis, Founder and CEO of Overwatch Imaging, said, “It’s encouraging to see agencies like the Florida State Guard adopt sensor autonomy and fully leverage the power of AI and real-time edge processing to improve mission outcomes. With this technology, FSG is expanding its operational reach, increasing capabilities beyond human limits, and reducing burden on operators. At the end of the day, better intelligence drives better outcomes, and this investment put FSG in a strong position to achieve both.”
The new technical suite allows the Guard to leverage real-time edge processing for complex tasks such as NDVI analysis and change comparison. By utilizing these autonomous capabilities, the Florida State Guard aims to maintain a high level of situational awareness that can adapt to evolving operational requirements and emerging technologies.
