The U.S. Defense Department confirmed on Wednesday that it used a laser weapon to shoot down a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) drone in southwest Texas. The incident occurred near Fort Hancock, a small town along the U.S.-Mexico border. Officials described the drone as having posed a “seemingly threatening” presence in military airspace.
In a joint statement, the Defense Department, CBP, and the FAA emphasized that the engagement happened away from populated areas, and no commercial aircraft were affected. They also noted their commitment to improving coordination among agencies to avoid future incidents.
Earlier this month, the FAA had to restrict airspace around Fort Hancock due to a dispute with the Pentagon regarding military drone operations. This type of issue is not new; on February 11, the FAA briefly closed air traffic around El Paso following concerns tied to military drone tests. Those tests reportedly involved high-energy lasers and attracted concerns over potential risks to commercial air traffic.
Democratic Representatives Rick Larsen, André Carson, and Bennie Thompson expressed their frustration over the lack of coordination between the agencies, highlighting the risks of such actions.
While this incident raises questions about drone etiquette and airspace management, it also reflects the increasing tensions regarding security along the southern border. In recent years, drones have become a focal point for various agencies, both for surveillance and counter-drone measures.
In conclusion, as the use of drones continues to rise, the need for clear communication and shared protocols among agencies is crucial. This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges involved in modern airspace management and national security.
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Texas, Drone, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, United States Department of Defense
