Embodiments of the invention enable an operator to interact with a video surveillance system comprising at least one sensor. The sensor may be configured to operate as a simulated weapon, or may be replaced by or augmented with a real weapon and in either case the simulated or real weapon is controlled over a network. The network may comprise the local video surveillance network or a network linking with a remotely operated weapon system. The integration of an existing video surveillance system with a network of remotely operated weapons and/or weapon simulators enables use of the resources of either system by the other system and enables a passive video surveillance system to become an active projector of lethal or non-lethal force.