CBP Is Using Blimps To Conduct Surveillance Over The Texas Border

Texas residents have reportedly spotted a blimp conducting surveillance operations over the town of Zapata. Border Report noted that it is the first time residents spotted a blimp in the area.

Over 185 feet long and 62 wide, blimps are operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Air and Marine Operations and are used to help track suspicious behavior from the air. They are equipped with dozens of cameras and sensory technology and have a radar range of 200 miles.

Border Report noted that several blimps have been spotted as of late. Overall there are eight aerostat sites on the Southwest border. Each unit can cost $400,000 for contractors.

The amount of unlawful border crossings reached a historical monthly low in June, with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recording just over 6,000 apprehensions.

CBS News highlighted earlier this month that the figure is the lowest monthly tally ever reported. The previous record had taken place in March, with some 7,200 arrests. A little over 9,500 migrants were arrested in May.

The outlet noted that CBP recorded over 6,000 apprehensions each day during periods of the Biden administration. At its peak in late 2023, some days saw more than 10,000 unlawful crossings.

The administration recorded some 38,000 apprehensions since February 1, a more than 90% decrease compared the almost 600,000 that took place during the same period last year under the Biden administration.

"The world is hearing our message: If you come here illegally, we will find you, arrest you, and deport you. We will not be deterred by the rioters and politicians in our mission to secure America and its border. Migrants are turning back because they know the reality is they will ultimately leave in handcuffs," said DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin in late June.