Colombia Launches $1.68 Billion Anti-Drone Shield Following ELN Attack
Colombia has launched a $1.68 billion Anti-Drone Shield project in response to a deadly drone attack by the National Liberation Army (ELN) that killed seven soldiers. Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the initiative as part of a broader strategy to enhance airspace security and protect civilians, amid a rise in drone attacks reported by the military. The project will also involve modernizing technology, including the establishment of a drone battalion utilizing artificial intelligence for target identification.
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In response to a December 18, 2025, drone attack by the National Liberation Army (ELN) that killed seven soldiers and injured over 30, Colombia's government has initiated a national Anti-Drone Shield project. Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed the project with an initial investment of $1.68 billion, marking a significant shift in the country’s security strategy to combat the increasing drone usage by the ELN.
The Ministry of Defense described this initiative as the most ambitious airspace defense strategy aimed at protecting civilians and security forces. Between April 2024 and December 2025, the Colombian army reported 393 drone attacks, particularly in the Catatumbo and Cauca regions. Concurrently, the Colombian armed forces are modernizing their technology, including the launch of a drone battalion equipped with artificial intelligence for target identification and autonomous operation.
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