Earlier this month, Boeing tested their 98 foot tall mobile sensor towers that are an integral part of “SBINet,” which is Homeland Security’s project to use advanced technology to militarize the border. Boeing was given the initial contract of $2 billion, but the project is likely to cost at least $8 billion, with estimates as high as $30 billion. (Washington Technology)
These towers are equiped with cameras, radar and wireless communication systems and are part of an intensified assault on immigrants. The SBINet project also incorporates the use of other military technology, including unmanned aircraft. Nine of these towers are scheduled to be deployed by May 31st, covering 28 miles of the border in Southwest Arizona. This is an important step in what is called, “Project 28,” the first implementation of SBINet.
Instead of dealing with the real issues related to immigration, government agencies like the Department of Homeland Security would prefer to spend billions of tax dollars on military technology. Meanwhile, corporations like Boeing are all too willing to capitalize on hot-button issues and profit off of increased militarization.
To quote Frida Berrigan, “To craft truly effective, humane and ‘comprehensive’ immigration reform, the president will have to do a lot more than show up once in a while. He has to learn that the border is not a war zone, Mexicans are not combatants, and military contractors are not the solution.”
To take action against Boeing for profiting off of Bush’s militarization of the border, come to the picket on May 1st.
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Also, to read Boeing’s statement and to see a picture of the tower, visit their website: Boeing
