World · North America · 21 hrs ago
US says it is dismantling cartel drone network at Mexico border
The US Department of Homeland Security says it is working with the Department of War to dismantle a network of drones used by Mexican cartels near the US-Mexico border.
The drones are linked to smuggling and human trafficking across the southern border.
US forces have used laser technology to bring down suspected cartel drones.
A US report cited by Fox News said nearly 100 suspected cartel drones were shot down in August, with the actions coordinated with Mexican military and border authorities.
The first confirmed use of the AMP-HEL laser system against drones linked to cartels took place on the nights of August 25 and 26, when it intercepted three drones.
US officials say the technology is intended to protect personnel and border security operations.
The Department of Homeland Security says the US defense industry will continue expanding these systems.
The US Department of Homeland Security said it was advancing efforts to dismantle a drone network used by Mexican cartels along the southern border.
The department said the drones were used for smuggling and human trafficking across the border.
The announcement credited President Donald Trump’s leadership and coordination with the Department of War.
The department said the US had used laser technology against drones and planned to expand directed-energy systems.
A previous report said the US military had brought down nearly 100 suspected cartel drones in August.
- Who
- The US Department of Homeland Security announced the effort, working with the Department of War.
- What
- The US says it is dismantling a cartel drone network and using laser technology to counter drones.
- When
- The announcement was made on October 10, 2026.
- Where
- Along the US-Mexico southern border.
- Why
- The drones were used by Mexican cartels for smuggling and human trafficking across the border.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Goodbye, Narcos
defensive counter-drone technology to protect our personnel and border security operations from cartel-linked drone threats
the successful neutralization of these adversary drones is clear proof of the Joint Task Force’s readiness, vigilance and technological advantage
With honor and integrity, we will safeguard the American people, our homeland and our values
US forces intercepted and neutralized three drones overnight using the AMP-HEL laser system.
US Northern Command confirmed the interception, marking the first confirmed use of the laser system against cartel-linked aircraft at the southern border.
A Defense Department distribution service documented an AMP-HEL-equipped vehicle near Rio Grande City, Texas.
Fox News reported that the US Army had brought down nearly 100 suspected Mexican cartel drones during August.
The Department of Homeland Security announced progress in dismantling the cartel drone network.
- Drones
- Used by Mexican cartels for smuggling and human trafficking across the border
- August drone interceptions
- Nearly 100 suspected cartel drones, according to a Fox News report
- Confirmed laser interception
- Three drones, overnight on August 25–26
- Laser system
- AMP-HEL (Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser)
- Deployment location
- Near Rio Grande City, Texas
Sources
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