Mexico and U.S. launch Operation High Eagle anti-drone border mission

Mexico and the United States have launched ‘Operation High Eagle,’ a coordinated binational effort to detect and neutralize drones along the border between Tijuana and San Diego. The operation, which includes a second phase running through September 21, 2026, involves the deployment of approximately 800 Mexican military personnel and specialized anti-drone equipment, including mobile and semi-fixed inhibition technology.

Mexican Defense Secretary Ricardo Trevilla Trejo stated that the operation targets commercial drones used by criminal organizations to monitor authorities during human and drug trafficking activities. President Claudia Sheinbaum clarified that these are commercial devices used for surveillance rather than armed drones, distinguishing this border activity from the use of explosive-equipped drones seen in states like Michoacán and Sinaloa.

While the operation utilizes ‘mirror’ tactics—where both nations conduct simultaneous actions within their own territories—official reports indicate that the Mexican side has not yet yielded significant results or confirmed interceptions. Authorities plan to meet next week to exchange intelligence and evaluate findings from both sides of the border.