The Security Ministry seeks funds to buy 10 mobile radar systems that would be used to detect light airplanes carrying drugs.
According to security minister, Gustavo Mata, the purchase is necessary because the amount of drugs crossing over the country’s coasts is expected to reach 1,700 tons per year.
Costa Rica lacks radar systems capable of detecting aircraft flying at low altitude. So far, authorities rely on witnesses on the ground to alert them of suspicious planes.
The new radar would be installed in 6 points of the Pacific Coast and another 4 in the Caribbean. These devices have a range of 37.28 miles, and each one costs about $ 500,000.
The institution already has a budget to purchase two radar systems. It hopes to get more resources if a new tax on anonymous corporations is approved.
Costa Rican authorities also discussing the reactivation of a US radar station in Nandayure, Guanacaste, which has been out of service for over 20 years and requires an investment of $ 6 million to put it back to work.
Source: La Nación.