The Pentagon announced the establishment of a fourth military defense zone along the U.S.-Mexico border, spanning 140 miles in Arizona near the Barry M. Goldwater Range. Controlled by the U.S. Navy, this new National Defense Area (NDA) is an extension of Marine Corps Air Station Yuma. The move is part of a broader effort to enhance border security and curb illegal immigration, following directives from President Donald Trump.
The Arizona NDA follows the recent creation of a 250-mile defense area along the Rio Grande River in Texas, managed by the U.S. Air Force. Earlier zones were established in New Mexico and West Texas. These zones allow military personnel to detain individuals accused of trespassing and transfer them to law enforcement.
According to The Military Times, the Barry M. Goldwater Range has long been a site of illegal activities, including drug smuggling and human trafficking. The U.S. Air Force has been monitoring the environmental impact of illegal crossings since 2015.
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated that approximately 8,500 U.S. soldiers are involved in border operations as part of Joint Task Force Southern Border. The military’s role in immigration enforcement has expanded significantly, with more than 3,500 patrols conducted since March 20.
Over 600 miles of the southern border are now under Department of Defense control. The Pentagon is also planning to build the first ICE detention center on a military installation.
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