The Pentagon is considering redeploying MQ-9 Reaper strike and reconnaissance drones from Africa to Central and South America for operations against drug cartels, APA reports.
The Wall Street Journal reported this, citing sources familiar with the matter.
According to the newspaper, the US military used the drones in 2025 to strike several vessels belonging to drug traffickers. As operations in the region expand, the military is considering deploying additional MQ-9 Reaper drones from Africa.
The WSJ noted that the drones are capable of intercepting electronic communications, detecting heat signatures and carrying out precision strikes.
Francis Donovan, commander of the US Southern Command, declined to comment on the possible redeployment of the drones.
Donovan told the newspaper that the difficult terrain and weather conditions in Latin America require the US military to rely on advanced technological systems. He added that he was not ruling out any potential options for operations against drug cartels.
“These could include ground strikes, arrests or the destruction of hideouts,” Donovan said.
Follow us on Telegram
t.me/apanewsaz
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on TikTok
Follow us on Facebook
Follow us on X
