DHS to Expand Drone Surveillance with $265M Investment in MQ-9B Drones

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is set to significantly expand its drone surveillance capabilities, with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) leading the charge. According to recently published procurement records, CBP plans to spend more than $265 million to grow its fleet of high-powered surveillance drones. The move reflects DHS’s ongoing investment in drone technology and potential expansion across other agencies under its umbrella.

The procurement documents, reviewed by 404 Media, cite the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act as the funding source. CBP stated it is “utilizing new Congressional funding to support procurement and sustainment” for a fleet of MQ-9 drones. The exact number of drones to be acquired remains undisclosed. CBP previously operated a fleet of around 10 drones, as noted in an online presentation.

CBP has not disclosed how many additional MQ-9B drones it intends to purchase in response to inquiries from 404 Media.

CBP’s Role in Drone Surveillance

A CBP spokesperson emphasized the critical role of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in border security:

“Unmanned Aircraft Systems [UAS] are a critical component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s layered border security strategy, providing advanced surveillance and detection capabilities across land and maritime environments. These systems enhance CBP Air and Marine Operations’ ability to detect, track, and respond to illicit activity, as well as support disaster response and search and rescue operations.”

The spokesperson added, “CBP is expanding its existing UAS fleet with additional MQ-9B unmanned aircraft currently on order. MQ-9 fleet end strength remains under evaluation.”

MQ-9B SkyGuardian: Capabilities and Deployment

The MQ-9B drone, manufactured by General Atomics Aeronautical, is also marketed as the SkyGuardian. According to the company’s website, the drone is designed to operate beyond visual line of sight via satellite for over 40 hours in all weather conditions. It is capable of safely integrating into civil airspace, providing real-time situational awareness globally, day or night.

Currently, CBP is the only DHS component with an operational fleet of MQ-9 drones. The agency frequently deploys these drones to assist other federal entities, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), based on data obtained by 404 Media. Notably, CBP flew Predator drones over the June 2025 anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles.

Potential Expansion Across DHS

Procurement documents suggest that other DHS components may also seek to acquire MQ-9 drones. The records state:

“Other DHS components that are looking to establish an MQ-9 program, [redacted], may procure an additional [redacted] MQ-9 UAS utilizing the CBP contract vehicle.”

When asked which agency this referred to, CBP declined to provide a response.