The US-Mexico border is seeing a significant technological upgrade in its fight against illegal crossings and drug smuggling. U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) has deployed soldiers near Rio Grande City, Texas, utilizing advanced radar systems to monitor activity along the border. This deployment comes in response to a reported “massive increase” in drone usage by those attempting to cross the border illegally.

The soldiers are employing two sophisticated radar systems: the AN/TPQ-53 rapid reaction radar, typically used to track rockets and mortars, and the AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel, designed for tracking aircraft and drones. Remarkably, these systems, originally intended for battlefield use, have been adapted for domestic defense purposes.

Their mission is clear: provide crucial intelligence to Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The escalating use of drones by illegal immigrants and drug smugglers has necessitated this high-tech response, highlighting the evolving nature of border security challenges. This deployment marks a significant step in leveraging military technology to bolster border protection efforts.