Venezuela shows off DJI drones at yesterday’s presidential rally

Terpstra
Terpstra
Jul 28, 2017 · 3 min read

Yesterday, President Maduro of Venezuela held a rally which featured some newly acquired drones operated by the Bolivarian National Police (PNB). Drone hobbyists will probably recognize both of the types of drones shown yesterday by the PNB. They are commercial drones designed and built by DJI, a well-known Chinese drone manufacturer.

A DJI Phantom Pro 4 in the left frame, with a PNB police car in the right frame. Credit: Nathan Crooks.

One of the types of drones that was shown yesterday was the Phantom Pro 4. I am certain it is the Phantom Pro 4 and not the Phantom Pro 3 because Venezuelan T.V. footage showed PNB officers holding the fancy new Phantom Pro 4 remote controllers which come with an attached screen.

The Phantom Pro 4 controller.
In the right frame, state police holding Phantom Pro 4 controllers. Credit: Nathan Crooks.

The Phantom Pro 4 can take 14 photos a second, fly at more than 30 mph, and has a battery life of 30 minutes.

The second type of drone, also made by DJI, is the Inspire 1. According to DJI, the Inspire 1 is designed for professional filming. It can record in 4k HD or stream live footage in 720p HD while at a maximum distance of 5km from the operator.

In the left frame, an Inspire 1 hovers between police cars. Credit: Nathan Crooks.
Inspire 1

In his remarks at the rally, President Maduro said that these drones are going to be used to safeguard an upcoming vote. The vote, scheduled for July 30th, will be held to elect members of a new “Constituent Assembly” to replace the National Assembly. Months ago the National Assembly was disbanded on order of the Supreme Court. The opposition-dominated National Assembly had long been a thorn in the side of President Maduro. Although they have been barred from returning to their offices by the police, the National Assembly claims that they are still the legitimate legislature, and the plan for a Constituent Assembly is unconstitutional. The country has been rocked by protests, labor strikes, and repeated crackdowns. These drones will likely be used by the PNB to suppress protests and intimidate demonstrators ahead of Sunday’s vote.

Current affairs writer.

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