What is considered the best resource during a sniper situation?

In a sniper situation, the best resource is a helicopter. Helicopters provide an aerial perspective, enabling law enforcement to gather crucial information about the suspect's location, movements, and potential escape routes. This vantage point is invaluable for assessing the tactical situation in real-time, allowing for rapid decision-making and the coordination of ground units without putting additional personnel at risk. Helicopters can also be used for communication, surveillance, and, in some situations, can even help provide a distraction to the suspect.

While other resources like ground surveillance, patrol units, and foot patrols serve important roles in law enforcement, they do not offer the same comprehensive overview of the situation as a helicopter. Ground units, for instance, may be vulnerable to sniper fire and lack the ability to see beyond the immediate area. Foot patrols restrict movement and situational awareness, while patrol units on the ground may not have the tactical advantage needed in a high-stakes sniper scenario. Therefore, the helicopter's combination of mobility, visibility, and ability to provide support from above makes it the most effective resource in these critical situations.