The Drones of CDS

Authors

• Ryan Vilter, University of Nebraska at OmahaFollow
• Tyler McCoid, University of Nebraska at OmahaFollow
• Lauren Bertelsen, University of Nebraska at OmahaFollow
• Suat Cubukcu, Towson University
• George Grispos, University of Nebraska at OmahaFollow
• Austin C. Doctor, University of Nebraska at OmahaFollow

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

Spring 2026

Abstract

The Sinaloa Cartel (Cártel de Sinaloa, or CDS) is based in the state of Sinaloa, Mexico, and is one of the most powerful transnational drug cartels in the world.  The CDS is responsible for the production and smuggling of illicit narcotics such as fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and marijuana. Outside of criminal drug activity, the CDS is also a violent organization, which utilizes weaponized Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) - also known as drones - for attacking various residential communities throughout Mexico, propagating fear and displacing many people.

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Recommended Citation

Vilter, Ryan; McCoid, Tyler; Bertelsen, Lauren; Cubukcu, Suat; Grispos, George; and Doctor, Austin C., "The Drones of CDS" (2026). Reports, Projects, and Research. 155.
https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/ncitereportsresearch/155