5 things you need to know about the covert US military drone base discovered in mexico
- The secret base is located near the border city of Sonoyta in Sonora state, and was reportedly used to support US intelligence operations against drug cartels without prior notification to the Mexican government.
- Leaked satellite images show a fleet of unmarked surveillance drones, including the advanced MQ-9 Reaper model, which can fly at altitudes over 50,000 feet and loiter for 24 hours without needing to refuel.
- Mexican officials have expressed outrage over the violation of national sovereignty, with the Foreign Ministry demanding an immediate explanation and warning of potential diplomatic fallout.
- Sources suggest the base has been operational since early 2023, raising questions about why it remained undetected for so long and whether other covert facilities exist in mexico.
- The discovery has sparked renewed debate about US intervention in mexico's internal affairs, with critics arguing this undermines trust just as cooperation on fentanyl trafficking was improving.