Pentagon Laser Move Triggers Airspace Chaos, Friendly Fire, Urgent Safety Questions
In early February, the Pentagon deployed an anti-drone laser near El Paso, Texas on the U.S.–Mexico border, letting CBP use it against cartel drones without informing the FAA, which oversees national airspace safety.
The FAA, unaware of the laser deployment, suddenly closed airspace over El Paso for several hours, grounding flights and stranding many travelers. Lawmakers raised concerns about poor coordination between the Pentagon and the FAA.
On February 26, the U.S. military used the laser near Fort Hancock, Texas, to destroy a “threatening” drone. It was later identified as a CBP drone, causing a friendly fire incident and another FAA airspace closure.
Senator Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, ranking member of the Senate Aviation panel, demanded an independent investigation into both February incidents. Lawmakers warned about serious coordination gaps between the Pentagon and the FAA in domestic airspace control.
The Pentagon and FAA agreed to run coordinated anti-drone laser tests at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, addressing FAA safety concerns. The tests were scheduled for the upcoming weekend at the remote military site.
The FAA praised the joint effort, saying agencies are working together to counter drone threats while protecting national airspace. The military must now formally notify the FAA before any counter-drone action inside U.S. airspace.
