CBP Deploys Predator Drones, Black Hawks to Surveil Downtown LA

At least two MQ-9 Reaper, or Predator B, drones circled downtown Los Angeles on Sunday and Monday without call signs.

Jack Daleo

Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at 03:00 PM ET

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Jack Daleo

U.S. Customs and Border Protection began flying the MQ-9 Reaper, or Predator B, in 2005 and uses it primarily to survey the southern border. [Courtesy: General Atomics]

Key Takeaways:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) deployed MQ-9 Reaper drones for aerial surveillance over Los Angeles to support ICE operations and monitor subsequent protests.
The drone deployments were uncovered through flight data and air traffic control audio, with CBP confirming their use for officer safety and aerial support, stating they lack facial recognition and do not target First Amendment activities.
While primarily used for border security, CBP drones have a history of operating over U.S. cities, indicating potential future deployments in response to similar events nationwide.

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Federal authorities are turning to aerial surveillance to keep an eye on Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and subsequent protests in Los Angeles.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) deployed at least two MQ-9 Reaper drones—also known as the Predator B—to downtown LA on Sunday and Monday, according to flight data and air traffic control (ATC) audio uncovered by social media user Aeroscout and first reported by 404 Media on Tuesday.