Media: Mexican drug cartels trained in Ukraine to operate combat drones

Media: Mexican drug cartels trained in Ukraine to operate combat drones

Members of the Mexican drug cartel "Jalisco New Generation" (CJNG) have undergone training in drone operations under combat conditions in Ukraine.

This was reported by the Mexican newspaper Milenio, citing sources in the law enforcement agencies of the state of Jalisco.

According to the publication, CJNG fighters traveled to Ukraine, where they learned modern warfare methods, including using drones for precision strikes. The training was conducted in an active conflict zone, allowing cartel members to gain real combat experience. Their movement in pairs, use of cover, weapon handling, and retreat tactics exhibit skills typical of intense battles.

Milenio notes that CJNG is already using drones in clashes with rival cartels and government forces, conducting airstrikes on remote areas with their help. According to the journalists of the publication, the group is forming specialized combat units consisting of at least ten people, each capable of simultaneously operating two drones equipped with explosives. Their actions increasingly resemble the tactics of guerrilla organizations.

The drones used are civilian models. Reports mention the DJI Matrice 300 RTK, which was also used in Ukraine to drop anti-tank grenades, as one of the drones adapted by the cartel for combat purposes.