The deployment of Plan Democracy 2026 integrates land, air, and technological capabilities to contribute to citizen safety, the protection of electoral infrastructure, and free movement throughout the national territory.
In fulfillment of its constitutional mission, the National Army deployed a robust security operation under Plan Democracy 2026 to ensure the smooth conduct of the presidential elections on May 31 and, if necessary, a potential runoff election. For this mission, more than 120,000 soldiers were strategically deployed throughout the country, with a presence at 5,186 polling stations and providing security support for 122,121 polling stations.
The deployment includes the protection of urban and rural areas, prioritizing strategic regions and hard-to-reach zones through a coordinated operation that integrates ground troops, intelligence capabilities, air mobility, and technological surveillance systems. Additionally, a strategic reserve of nearly 2,000 personnel from highly specialized units was established, prepared to react immediately to any contingency.
As part of the reinforcement of the security operation, the institution extended the military service of 21,000 soldiers, increasing the available operational capabilities to ensure security during the electoral process. Similarly, personnel were trained in electoral procedures, the prevention of crimes against mechanisms of citizen participation, and respect for fundamental rights.
One of the main components of Plan Democracy is the use of advanced technological capabilities. Nearly 40 aircraft from the Air Assault Aviation Division and more than 70 drones will support surveillance, reconnaissance, and real-time monitoring efforts, especially in regions where geographical conditions demand a faster and more effective response.
In addition, for the first time in an electoral process, the National Army’s Unmanned Aircraft Battalion, a unit activated in October 2025, will actively participate, reinforcing security and aerial monitoring in different regions of the country. Nearly 50 unmanned aircraft will be deployed over strategic corridors, such as the Pan-American Highway and the Catatumbo Transversal, strengthening observation capabilities and early warning systems.
Similarly, the National Army maintains a special deployment along National Route 70, known as the Transversal del Catatumbo, a corridor of approximately 280 kilometers connecting Villa del Rosario with Aguachica. There, Cavalry, Artillery, and Infantry units conduct ongoing operations to ensure citizens’ mobility, protect strategic assets, and counter threats from organized armed groups.
At the same time, the institution actively participates in the Unified Command Posts established at the national and regional levels, in coordination with the National Civil Registry and other relevant authorities. With these human, operational, and technological capabilities, the National Army reaffirms its commitment to democracy, the protection of Colombians, and the creation of the security conditions necessary for millions of citizens to freely exercise their right to vote.
