History of CBP Air and Marine Operations in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 19, 2025

Air and Marine Operations (AMO) is a federal law enforcement arm of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). AMO safeguards the U.S. by utilizing air and marine assets to detect, interdict, and prevent terrorism and the illegal movement of people, drugs, and contraband across U.S. borders. AMO agents and officers enforce Title 8 and Title 19 of the United States Code, along with standard federal law enforcement powers.

August 2005: First AMO Dash 8 Q200 MPA placed in service

In August 2005, the first AMO Dash 8 Q200 MPA was placed in service. It was used extensively following Hurricane Katrina to transport law enforcement, flight crews, personnel, supplies, and equipment to New Orleans.

October 2005: First CBP Predator Takes Flight

In October 2005, the first CBP Predator took flight along the border with Mexico, marking a new chapter in border security operations.

April 2006: CBP Predator Crashes in Arizona

In April 2006, the first CBP Predator crashed near Nogales, Arizona after its engine was shut down mid-flight by the contractor. The crash led to an NTSB investigation, the first involving an unmanned aircraft, revealing technical and operational issues within the CBP drone program.

2006: USCG and CBP Award Contract to SAFE Boats International

In 2006, the USCG and CBP awarded an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract to SAFE Boats International to purchase 33-foot SAFE Boats, which CBP used as law enforcement interceptors for pursuing and boarding vessels in rough waters and extreme weather conditions.

February 2008: Third Dash 8 Delivered

In February 2008, a third Dash 8 aircraft was delivered to AMO, adding to their fleet of maritime patrol aircraft.

December 2008: Fourth Dash 8 Delivered

In December 2008, the fourth Dash 8 aircraft was delivered, further expanding AMO's operational capabilities.

2008: 38-foot SAFE Boat in CBP Service

In 2008, the 38-foot Secure All-around Flotation Equipped (SAFE) Boat began its service with CBP as a law enforcement interceptor, featuring marine-grade aluminum hulls, polyethylene foam collars, and a protective cabin with heat and air.

January 2009: UAS Operations Begin on Canada-US Border

In January 2009, AMO's UAS operations expanded to the Canada-US border, supporting Border Patrol Agents and CBP Officers in their border security mission.

2017: 41-foot SAFE Coastal Interceptor Vessel in CBP Service

In 2017, the 41-foot SAFE Coastal Interceptor Vessel was introduced into CBP service as a law enforcement interceptor, designed for drug interdiction, human trafficking prevention, and countering domestic terrorism in United States coastal waters and waterways.