Texas has begun using drones equipped with infrared technology to monitor and capture migrants crossing the border. This is part of Operation Lone Star, a state-led initiative launched to reduce illegal immigration. The drones are designed with heat-seeking technology, which helps detect movement at night, making it easier for border agents to identify and track individuals trying to cross the Texas-Mexico border. Staff Sergeant Daniel Moya-Rivera, stationed in El Paso, shared that the drones can identify movements using thermal night vision features. He explained, “If we see people cutting the concertina wire, we can immediately alert ground forces using a radio.”
In addition to detecting movements, the drones provide exact latitude and longitude coordinates, enabling ground agents to quickly locate any activity along the border. This technology enhances the ability of border forces to respond swiftly and accurately, adding a significant tool to their efforts to secure the border.
Governor Greg Abbott’s office reports that since Operation Lone Star began in 2021, the state has apprehended over 518,300 illegal immigrants and made more than 46,000 criminal arrests. The operation is said to have reduced illegal crossings into Texas by 85%, demonstrating the effectiveness of the multi-billion-dollar border mission. Alongside drone deployment, other measures include National Guard soldiers receiving airboat training, installing a floating barrier in the Rio Grande, and placing razor wire along the border to deter illegal entry.
However, the use of drones and other tactics has not been without controversy. The operation has faced criticism and is currently under investigation by the Department of Justice for potential civil rights violations, as reported by The Texas Tribune and ProPublica. Critics argue that some of the arrests attributed to Operation Lone Star may not directly relate to border security or drug smuggling, raising questions about the operation’s transparency and accountability.
Despite these concerns, Texas officials continue to defend the operation, citing the need to address what they perceive as a crisis at the southern border. Governor Abbott has been vocal about his disapproval of the current administration’s border policies, arguing that they encourage illegal immigration by not securing the border effectively. As Operation Lone Star continues, the state of Texas remains committed to utilizing all available resources, including advanced technology like drones, to curb illegal crossings and enhance border security.