Story perspectives

U.S. Military Shuts Down El Paso Airspace Amid Drone Threats

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. military has rapidly developed advanced anti-drone technologies, including lasers and microwave systems, to counter drone threats.
The airspace over El Paso was unexpectedly shut down, highlighting the challenge of safe operation rules for these systems in civilian airspace.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration attributed the closure to drone incursions from Mexican drug cartels, while others cited concerns about new counter-drone technology.

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Story summary

The U.S. military has rapidly developed advanced anti-drone technologies, including lasers and microwave systems, to counter drone threats.
The airspace over El Paso was unexpectedly shut down, highlighting the challenge of safe operation rules for these systems in civilian airspace.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration attributed the closure to drone incursions from Mexican drug cartels, while others cited concerns about new counter-drone technology.