Colombian Navy seizes first underwater drug drone equipped with Starlink antenna that was practically undetectable

On July 2, 2025, the Colombian Navy announced the results of a successful operation detecting a submersible-type vessel, shedding light on the growing technological capabilities of organized criminal groups.

The Navy identified an unmanned semi-submersible vessel that, according to officials, was equipped with a Starlink antenna and believed to have been operated remotely—making detection significantly more difficult. Admiral Juan Ricardo Rozo, Chief of the Colombian Navy, stated that the discovery “demonstrates an evolution in the logistical capabilities of drug trafficking, which seeks to surpass traditional approaches through innovation and highly adaptive means.”

Naval News, which also covered the story, estimated that the vessel could have transported up to 1.5 tons of cocaine. When the Navy seized it, the vessel was empty—something officials told AFP likely indicates it was being tested to assess how easily it could be detected.

Who did the vessel belong to?

The Colombian Navy is not the first to encounter a vessel of this kind used in the drug trade. CBS News highlighted similar cases in Italy, Mexico, and Portugal, citing experts who believe the use of unmanned vessels will likely increase. These vessels reduce the risk of capture, as authorities may not be able to identify who is behind the shipment.

While Admiral Rozo did not provide extensive details, he said the Navy believes the vessel belonged to the Gulf Clan, Colombia’s largest drug trafficking organization. The U.S. State Department has designated the group a foreign terrorist organization. In addition to its role in the drug trade, the Gulf Clan has also operated as a right-wing neo-paramilitary group.

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