Retired Marine Intelligence Officer LtCol. Hal Kempfer welcomes Dr. John Sullivan to STRAT for a timely discussion of cartel drones, autonomous warfare, and security along the United States border. Drawing on decades of experience in policing, counterterrorism, and intelligence, Sullivan explores how Mexican cartels could adapt battlefield innovations from Ukraine and what those developments mean for homeland security. The conversation examines weaponized drones, emerging artificial intelligence capabilities, and questions surrounding government efforts to counter these threats. Kempfer and Sullivan also discuss the role of intelligence fusion centers in connecting information, strengthening coordination, and supporting threat assessment. From transnational organized crime to evolving autonomous systems, this episode considers how security professionals can better understand and prepare for an increasingly complex and rapidly changing global threat environment.

Takeaways:

• Examining cartel drones and their implications for border security.
• Exploring Ukraine’s relevance to emerging cartel warfare tactics.
• Assessing barriers to weaponized drone use inside the United States.
• Discussing federal efforts to counter cartel drone threats.
• Considering artificial intelligence’s role in future autonomous weapons.
• Understanding intelligence fusion centers and their security mission.
• Connecting transnational organized crime with evolving technological threats.
• Exploring Sullivan’s security research and Arizona State University work.

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