The Air1 infrared camera is seeing red after years of costly repairs have ultimately led to the need for a replacement.
Winnipeg police unveiled AIR1 in December 2010; at the time, it was equipped with the latest infrared camera.
Five years later, police say the camera has come to the end of its life cycle. The current camera needs constant repairs, which limits the use of the helicopter.
Police can't say exactly how much a completely new camera would cost; however, since the inception of the Air1 program, they’ve spent more than $20,000 on repairs.
The infrared camera system is what makes Air1 a functioning police tool. Heat-seeking helps in situations such as rescues, video of which was shown to media on Wednesday.
The camera is also integral tactical oversight of ground K-9 units, said police. Dogs know the suspect is in the area, and the chopper can monitor the scene from above.
Winnipeg police stressed the camera is an "integral part" of Air1 operation; without it, the helicopter doesn't fly.
Police are in talks with the province regarding funding and support for this equipment.
