Yes, we saw soldiers there and at the Mexico City airport too. That whole trip i got the feeling the authorities were very concerned about protecting their cash cows—the tourists. The local people were friendly, and I seldom felt in danger (except on the trip to Chitzen Itza). I doubt they feel as protective of the gringos now.
In the old days you couldn't get on Cancun as a Mexican unless you worked there. They did a good job keeping the riff raf out. Yet if you drove to a ruin I guess you're on your own.
The only time in Mexico I felt uncomfortable was walking back from dinner at night with my pregnant wife on one of the main streets in Playa Del Carmen. There was a group of local young men all making comments in Spanish(of course) towards me and my wife. They did nothing but make comments. It made my wife uncomfortable, and therefore me. Especially because I was outnumbered by about 5 to 1.
My company has a trip scheduled to Cabo next April. You have to get tested for covid coming home and going. Neither my wife or I are not vaccinated. Even though it is a company paid trip, I am not sure I really want to go back to Mexico.