Model Helicopters on Prime Time TV

OK, show of hands, who saw the TAG (Tactical Assistance Group) chopper on CSI: NY last night? This radio controlled helicopter had twin machine guns that proved very deadly.

There was a small inaccuracy in the script (which we’ll forgive since we’re just happy to see our “toys” on television). The pilot referred to battery time as if it were an electric helicopter (and a battery looking a lot like an 8 cell NiCad pack was shown). Yet when the helicopter canopy was lifted off, you could clearly see a glow engine muffler 

Or maybe you saw the UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Assault Chopper on Alias a couple of weeks ago? This was a smaller electric heli that was totally autonomous. It could use facial recognition software to acquire, then go after, a target.

It’s perhaps a sign of the times that these units are now featured as main parts of the plot lines in these episodes. Previous use of rc helicopters and rc airplanes was primarily to represent the real thing, in special effects, chase or crash scenes.

However with the advent of electric parkflyers, rc airplanes and their kin are perhaps more forefront in the minds of television writers. Couple that with military action taking place overseas using well-publicized UAV’s, and it’s no wonder that writers are coming up with these ideas.


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