Aviation Support Unit (ASU)

The Washington State Police Air Support Unit specializes in operating helicopters to assist the ground units in various operations. It uses a Pilot and co-pilot operations method.

During pursuits and manhunts, the crew assists the ground units by calling out positions and activities performed by criminals. Our helicopters are equipped with cameras that have tracking capabilities, can see at night and use thermals, and provide the operator with detailed readouts on criminals. 

We also assist with search and rescue using the camera system, we can insert operatives into hard-to-reach places with our repel winches.