The article explores the notorious legacy of Amado Carrillo, known as 'The Lord of the Skies', who revolutionized drug trafficking operations by utilizing small aircraft to transport large shipments of drugs into the United States during his reign over the Juárez Cartel. His death in 1997 marked a significant moment in drug trafficking history, celebrated by many in the U.S. as it meant the end of one of the most powerful drug traffickers. However, his influence persists in the evolving methods of drug transportation and cartel operations.

In recent years, the use of drones, particularly for drug trafficking, has skyrocketed. The article cites figures from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office, showing an increase in the number of narcodrones from 150 in 2014 to a staggering 10,000 by 2024. This dramatic rise indicates that cartels have adopted advanced technology to enhance their operations, circumventing traditional law enforcement methods. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, allowing cartels to utilize drones at greater ranges, providing them with an upper hand in their conflicts against rival factions.

The article also focuses on the tactical implications of drone usage, specifically noting how the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) has employed these unmanned aerial vehicles to gain a competitive advantage in their violent confrontations. The development and deployment of narcodrones signify a chilling evolution in cartel warfare, transforming not only drug transportation methods but also how cartels interact within their increasingly militarized and tech-savvy environment, posing new challenges for law enforcement agencies.