What is the purpose of the U.S. drone program in Mexico and how does it operate?

The drone program, initiated during the Biden administration, uses surveillance drones to locate fentanyl labs in Mexican territory. Originally run by the Justice Department but now transitioning toward Pentagon or CIA oversight, it functions as a non-lethal intelligence sharing operation. Unlike armed drones used in countries like Pakistan, these drones gather information about drug production facilities which is then shared with Mexican counterparts who can take action, such as making arrests. The program has been significantly expanded under the current administration to combat fentanyl trafficking.