The Home Office has hired two passenger aircrafts equipped with radar, hi-tech cameras and sensors to provide round-the-clock surveillance of Channel migrant crossings.

The £34million investment will deploy two De Havilland Dash 8 aircraft to help prevent illegal landings, intercept boats and gather intelligence on people smuggling operations.

One aircraft is already operational and has proven valuable in supporting prosecutions against people smugglers.

The surveillance operation aims to prevent deaths at sea and monitor migrant movements across the Channel.

When not monitoring migrant activity, the aircraft will support the UK's Joint Maritime Security Centre, Ministry of Defence and Coastguard in protecting sea borders and intercepting other smuggling operations.

The single aircraft currently operates from RAF Lydd in Kent, providing eight hours of coverage before pilots must return to base for rest and refuelling.

A second aircraft is expected to join the fleet next spring, enabling the full 4,000 hours of annual air surveillance needed.

This will allow 24/7 coverage during the approximately 200 days per year when weather conditions are suitable for small boat crossings.

More to follow...