Mexico will soon be able to procure American drone technology under a new defense agreement that gives its Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA) access to the US Army’s digital marketplace.
Signed by US Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll and Mexican Army Major General Héctor Ávila, the pact is intended to strengthen Mexico’s operational capabilities against organized crime.
The framework allows SEDENA to procure a range of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter-UAS (c-UAS), although the number of systems, specific models, and potential contract value have not been disclosed.
It is also unclear which drones or countermeasures Mexico plans to acquire or when deliveries could begin.
US Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson said the agreement forms part of a broader bilateral security partnership between US President Donald Trump and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
The agreement reportedly marks the first time the US has opened access to its drone technology for sale to Mexico.
Combating Criminal Activities
The development comes amid growing concern over Mexican criminal groups’ use of commercial drone technology.
Sources claim these groups have progressed from using drones primarily for aerial surveillance to employing modified systems capable of carrying explosive devices.
Smaller UAS have also reportedly been used to monitor border activity and smuggle illicit substances across the US-Mexico border.
“This technology will enhance our capacity to combat cartels and address our shared security challenges,” Johnson wrote on social media.
