US Expands Surveillance Near Mexico, Targets Cartel Activity

The US military has significantly increased surveillance operations along the US-Mexico border, deploying advanced reconnaissance aircraft for intelligence-gathering missions. Reports indicate that at least 18 such flights occurred between late January and early February, focusing on cartel activities. These missions included flights over US airspace and international waters near Baja California.

CNN, citing US defense officials, reported that the operations involve sophisticated aircraft such as the P-8 Poseidon, a naval aircraft designed for anti-submarine warfare but also capable of collecting signals intelligence, and the U-2, a Cold War-era reconnaissance aircraft. The deployment of a U-2 to the region has been described as unprecedented. Additionally, the RC-135 “Rivet Joint”, an aircraft specialized in intercepting ground communications, conducted flights over Baja California, including routes near Sinaloa.

Historically, the US Department of Defense has conducted only one surveillance flight per month in the border region. The recent escalation to 18 flights in ten days marks a significant increase in activity, covering areas over California, Arizona, Texas, and the Baja California peninsula.

The Mexican Navy (SEMAR) acknowledged the presence of US naval vessels near Baja California but clarified that they were operating in international waters, consistent with prior occurrences. Mexican authorities have not publicly commented on the surveillance flights.

A central concern among US officials is how the gathered intelligence will be utilized. Some experts speculate it may support Mexican authorities in counter-narcotics operations. However, others warn that the intelligence could pave the way for unilateral US military actions against cartel targets. Former US officials cited by CNN expressed apprehension that these missions might be aimed at identifying cartel locations for potential strikes.

"I believe the cartels would be making a mistake if they chose to engage the military. They have confronted the Mexican military before, but now we are talking about the US military,” said Tom Homan, former director, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in an interview with ABC News.

While US troops are currently restricted from engaging in law enforcement activities such as arrests or drug seizures, policy changes under the current administration could alter their role in border security efforts.

CNN reported that President Donald Trump has ordered additional active-duty troops to the border and increased the deployment of intelligence specialists to monitor threats and migration flows. While the existing legal framework limits direct military action, there is growing speculation that these restrictions could change through legislative or executive measures.