The U.S. military intercepted approximately 100 suspected cartel drones at the southern border in August, marking the first public disclosure of such operations. A senior War Department official confirmed the takedowns to Fox News, revealing that Task Force–Southern Border carried out the operations using specialized counter-drone equipment.
The disclosure highlights the Pentagon’s expanding use of defensive counter-drone technology, including laser systems, to address threats linked to cartels operating near the U.S.-Mexico border. According to the official, each operation was planned and coordinated with Mexican military and border authorities to prevent unintended conflicts.
A Pentagon spokesperson, Kingsley Wilson, stated that the U.S. is employing defensive counter-drone measures to protect personnel and border security operations from cartel-linked drone threats. Wilson emphasized that these actions are conducted in close coordination with Mexican authorities to ensure safety on both sides of the border.
The operations are part of a broader effort to rapidly deploy layered defenses against drone incursions, combining multiple technologies, trained personnel, and updated military authorities. The military has not relied on a single system but instead uses an integrated approach to counter evolving threats.
The revelation follows ongoing discussions about border security and the role of military support in enforcement efforts. The Pentagon’s disclosure provides new insight into the frequency and scope of counter-drone measures at the southern border.