Cheap Drones Are A Costly Problem For Governments in Latin America

Cheap drones are proving to be a costly issue for governments in Latin America. Both Mexico and the United States have come together to enhance security measures against counter-drone technology as criminal organizations exploit affordable commercial drones for surveillance, territorial control, and violence. These drones are transforming into sophisticated weapons, with modifications including the attachment of hand grenades, explosives, or surveillance cameras for as little as US$600–1,200 in Colombia and Mexico.

Colombia has witnessed a sharp increase in drone-related incidents, with the number of municipalities affected rising from 12 to 41 between 2024 and 2025, and illegal drone attacks growing from 38 to 149 over the same period. In response, the Colombian government is investing $1.68 billion in an anti-drone shield, dubbed the Escudo Nacional Antidrones.

This multi-phase plan aims to detect and intercept hostile unmanned aircraft, train security personnel, and establish a specialized military unit within the Colombian army. The project is currently in its initial implementation phase, with early successes reported in drone seizures and targeted operations against specialized operators recruited for their expertise in drone technology and weapons modification.

Legislation in Colombia also focuses on restricting the importation of drones at critical chokepoints, such as ports under the jurisdiction of the Cartagena Regional Customs Directorate and El Dorado International Airport, as well as limiting the use of postal services and express deliveries. However, gaps in legislation remain.

In Colombia's Catatumbo region, the National Liberation Army (ELN) guerrilla units are reportedly equipping drones with thermal imaging sensor technology to enhance surveillance capabilities day and night. Coordinated "swarm attacks" and drones hovering over communities serve as weapons of psychological intimidation to control territory and undermine public confidence in state security forces.

Brazilian authorities are also actively countering drone use in urban areas dominated by criminal groups, such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Rio's Civil Police has established the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operations Coordination Unit (COANT), integrating drones into police intelligence and operations for mapping and real-time monitoring.

São Paulo's police have prioritized intelligence-led monitoring operations and have even experimented with targeted drone strikes using drone guns against powerful gangs like the First Capital Command (PCC) and Red Command (CV).