On November 29, 2023, Colonel Omar Rabling Valdez of the Mexican Army sat down for an interview with CTX Editorial Review Board member Colonel Ian Rice.[1] During their discussion, Colonel Valdez offered valuable insights into the critical role unmanned systems play in modern geopolitics, drawing from his extensive experience in Special Forces operations. His research emphasizes countering unmanned aerial systems (UAS) used by transnational criminal organizations, advocating for the development of bilateral legal frameworks, the advancement of technological solutions, and enhanced U.S.–Mexico collaboration to bolster cross-border security.

Ian Rice: This is Ian Rice conducting a Combating Threats Exchange interview with Colonel Omar Rabling Valdez on his research on counter-unmanned aerial systems. Thank you for joining us, Colonel Valdez. To start, could you tell us about your military specialty in the Mexican Armed Forces?

Colonel Valdez: Thank you, Dr. Ian. My specialty is in Special Forces. I’ve dedicated approximately seven years of my military career to Special Forces units, where I gained experience in operations that require a high degree of skill and precision. Additionally, I’ve served with Airborne units, which demand a unique operational perspective, combining mobility with advanced tactical capabilities.

Rice: That’s impressive. You’ve also held leadership roles, such as company commander, battalion executive officer, and commander of an Airborne unit. What has been the focus of your operational activities in these roles?

Valdez: Our operations have primarily focused on countering criminal organizations in Mexico. These operations are in direct support of police forces, which face significant challenges because criminal organizations are often better armed and equipped than the civilian police. My units have been tasked with providing the additional firepower, skills, and strategic oversight needed to neutralize threats and restore order in high-conflict areas.

Rice: Could you elaborate on the types of activities your units typically engage in during these operations?

Valdez: Certainly. Our activities range from securing specific areas to providing intelligence and reconnaissance support. For instance, when police forces need to execute judicial orders or carry out reconnaissance missions in high-risk zones, they often request military assistance to ensure their safety. In conflict zones, our mission goes beyond direct engagement with criminal organizations. We aim to lower insecurity in the area and help establish a secure environment where civilians can live without fear. This requires not only tactical expertise but also a commitment to long-term stabilization efforts, such as dismantling criminal networks and supporting local law enforcement capabilities.

Rice: How would you describe the working relationship between the military and police forces in Mexico?

Valdez: It’s a complex relationship that varies depending on the specific operation and the objectives of the commanding officers involved. While there are instances where police forces may be hesitant to accept military support, building a foundation of trust and collaboration is essential for success. In my experience, fostering strong relationships with police units often leads to more effective joint operations. For example, in areas where we’ve established good rapport, we’ve been able to secure zones more efficiently and achieve better outcomes for both the authorities and the civilian population.

Rice: What motivated you, as a senior officer, to pursue graduate studies at the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS)?

Valdez: This opportunity was particularly significant because it marks the first time the US government has offered a master’s program at NPS to the Mexican Army. To be selected, I competed against other colonels, lieutenant colonels, and even generals. This program is a milestone for collaboration between our countries, and I felt it was a unique chance to enhance my understanding of irregular warfare and countering modern threats, particularly those posed by criminal organizations. It’s an opportunity to explore solutions that could be implemented not only in Mexico but across the Americas.

Rice: Your research focuses on countering unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Why did you choose this topic, and why is it important?

Valdez: I chose this topic because I’ve witnessed firsthand how criminal organizations are leveraging advanced technologies like UAS to enhance their operations. These drones are not just tools for smuggling drugs and arms; they are also used for intelligence gathering and even as weapons. Criminals are using UAS to monitor law enforcement activities, plan ambushes, and transport illicit goods across borders. Some have even weaponized drones with explosives to attack rivals, authorities, and even civilians. This evolving threat requires innovative strategies to counteract their capabilities.

Criminals are using UAS to monitor law enforcement activities, plan ambushes, and transport illicit goods across borders.

Rice: That’s a significant concern. Could you outline the key components of your research and approach?

Valdez: My research focuses on three main components: legal, technological, and operational.

Legal Frameworks: There are gaps in the laws of both Mexico and the United States that hinder cross-border collaboration. For instance, criminal organizations exploit jurisdictional ambiguities along the border, where drones can cross freely, leaving authorities unsure of their legal ability to act. I propose creating a bilateral legal framework that allows for seamless coordination between US and Mexican authorities.

Technological Countermeasures: Developing technologies to neutralize criminal drones is critical. This includes tools to detect, intercept, and disable UAS before they can complete their missions. Authorities need access to advanced systems that can counteract drones being used for surveillance, smuggling, or attacks.

Operational Collaboration: Finally, my research emphasizes the need for joint operational teams. These teams, composed of personnel from both countries, would conduct intelligence-driven missions to target high-value assets and disrupt criminal networks. By combining resources and expertise, these units can be more effective than either country operating independently.

Rice: How do criminal organizations use UAS technology, and what challenges do authorities face in countering these tactics?

Valdez: Criminals use drones for various purposes, including surveillance, smuggling drugs and weapons, and gathering intelligence on law enforcement activities. Along the border, drones are used to monitor Border Patrol operations and exploit jurisdictional boundaries. For example, a drone can easily cross from Mexico into the United States and back, creating legal and logistical challenges for authorities on both sides. Furthermore, drones have been weaponized, with explosives being used to attack law enforcement and rival organizations. The challenge lies in the speed and adaptability of these technologies, which often outpace current countermeasures.

A drone can easily cross from Mexico into the United States and back, creating legal and logistical challenges for authorities on both sides.

Rice: What operational recommendations do you propose for addressing these challenges?

Valdez: My primary recommendation is the creation of bilateral task forces that integrate legal, technological, and operational strategies. These task forces would share intelligence to improve situational awareness, conduct joint missions targeting specific threats, and develop new counter-UAS technologies that can be deployed in real time. Additionally, I advocate for training programs that enhance the ability of both US and Mexican personnel to work seamlessly together in high-stakes environments.

Rice: Do you think your recommendations will gain traction with senior leadership in Mexico?

Valdez: I believe they will. Upon returning to Mexico, I plan to present my findings and advocate for stronger collaboration with US counterparts. This research aligns with the ongoing efforts to combat organized crime, and I’m confident that my superiors will see its value in enhancing our operational effectiveness.

Rice: What are your thoughts on fostering deeper collaboration between the United States and Mexico to address these challenges?

Valdez: Collaboration is essential. The threats we face are not confined by borders. Criminal organizations operate transnationally, and our response must be equally coordinated. By sharing resources, intelligence, and expertise, both countries can address the root causes of these threats and create a safer environment for our citizens.

Rice: Thank you, Colonel Valdez. Any final thoughts?

Valdez: Thank you for this opportunity. I hope that my research contributes to strengthening the partnership between our countries and advancing our shared security objectives. It’s been an honor to discuss these important issues with you.

Rice: Thank you, Colonel.

About the Interviewer

Ian Rice is a member of the CTX Editorial Review Board.

This is a work of the US federal government and is not subject to copyright protection in the United States. Foreign copyrights may apply.

Notes