Uncrewed Narco-Drone Boat (USV) Found Off Gibraltar

A small narco-surface drone (USV – uncrewed surface vessel) has been found by Spanish authorities floating off Gibraltar. The black-pained device could easily be mistaken for a submersible. Like the low-profile narco USV recently found in Colombia it appears to use Starlink for communications and navigation. A camera on the nose would allow the pilot to steer it.

The device was empty but could reasonably transport a boot-load of narcotics. It is electric powered, with two small thrusters, so likely only has a very short endurance. Construction is from fiberglass.

Note the white square antenna. This appears to be Starlink.

Other similar-sized narco semi-submersibles have been found in the area before. A significant amount of drug smuggling occurs across the Strait of Gibraltar, with several attempts at local narco-submarine designs. Aerial drones, fast boats and helicopters seem to be the main methods employed however. These USVs perhaps represent a more stealthy approach to the problem.

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