The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) has significantly advanced its tactical operations by formalizing a specialized drone unit, as evidenced by the emergence of unit-specific patches worn by its members. Since 2017, the CJNG has increasingly utilized drones for intelligence gathering, surveillance, reconnaissance, propaganda dissemination, and attacks involving improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The establishment of a dedicated drone operator unit underscores the cartel's commitment to integrating modern technology into its strategies, enhancing its operational capabilities against both rival groups and Mexican security forces.
In response to the growing threat of weaponized drones, cartels have adapted by modifying their armored vehicles, commonly known as "narco tanks," with "cope cages." These improvised armor additions, typically constructed from steel bars or metal grating, form a cage-like structure above the vehicle's main armor. Originally designed to protect against rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), cope cages are now employed to mitigate damage from drone attacks by either detonating explosives prematurely or disrupting their impact. This adaptation reflects the evolving nature of cartel warfare, where both offensive and defensive measures are continually adjusted in response to technological advancements in combat tactics.
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