Pentagon Official Reveals “Alarming” Number of Drone Incursions at US-Mexico Border
In a recent Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, U.S. NORTHCOM Commander Gen. Gregory M. Guillot testified about the concerning increase in drone incursions at the southern border. Sen. Ted Budd, R-N.C., questioned Gen. Guillot and Gen. Laura J. Richardson about the number of documented drones at the border and their potential risks to homeland security.
Gen. Guillot admitted that the number of incursions was alarming, stating, “I don’t know the actual number – I don’t think anybody does – but it’s in the thousands.” He further added that he had spoken with Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Justice, who also estimated the number to be in the thousands.
When asked about the timeframe in which these thousands of incursions occurred, Gen. Guillot estimated that over a month, there could be over 1,000 incidents. This revelation raises serious concerns about the security of the U.S.-Mexico border.
Despite the alarming numbers, Gen. Guillot clarified that there have not been indications that these incursions pose a risk for homeland defense. However, he did express concern about Chinese nationals crossing the border from South America. He highlighted the concentration of Chinese migrants in one location on the border and the potential for counterintelligence to hide in plain sight within these numbers.
Intelligence agencies have been closely monitoring individuals of Chinese origin at the border, and frequent briefings have been held at headquarters to share information on the disposition of apprehended Chinese nationals. This highlights the national security implications of the situation.
The increase in drone incursions and the presence of Chinese migrants at the border raise serious concerns about the effectiveness of border security measures. It is crucial for the U.S. government to address these issues promptly and enhance border surveillance and security to protect the nation from potential threats.
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