Investigation into High-Energy Laser Use in Texas Drone Incidents

Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), the ranking member of the Senate’s Aviation Subcommittee, has initiated a call for a government investigation into the use of high-energy lasers in anti-drone technology following two significant incidents in Texas. These events, which occurred in February 2023, involved the U.S. military shooting down a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) drone with a laser on February 26, leading to temporary airspace restrictions around Fort Hancock, Texas. Just days earlier, on February 18, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had closed airspace over El Paso due to the use of the same laser system, which was later revealed to have been deployed against party balloons.

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In her letter to the inspectors general of the Departments of Transportation, Defense, and Homeland Security, Duckworth expressed concerns regarding "serious and alarming problems and deficiencies" in interagency coordination and policymaking related to counter-drone systems. She emphasized the need for a thorough review of the decision-making processes that led to the use of these systems and the FAA's airspace closure decisions. Duckworth's inquiry also seeks to evaluate the potential risks posed to civilian, commercial, and medical aircraft, as well as other critical air operations.

The Hill

In response to the incidents, the FAA and the Pentagon have agreed to conduct tests of anti-drone laser systems in New Mexico, aiming to address safety concerns raised by the FAA. Deputy Transportation Secretary Steve Bradbury acknowledged the necessity for improved coordination and emphasized the importance of understanding the limitations and control mechanisms of the laser systems. The Pentagon has reported over 1,000 drone incursions along the U.S.-Mexico border each month, raising alarms about the use of drones by Mexican cartels for drug trafficking and surveillance.

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Critics of the current approach have raised questions about the adequacy of safety protocols and the implications of using high-energy lasers in populated areas. The lack of prior notification to local, state, and federal officials regarding the airspace closures has also been a point of contention, highlighting potential gaps in communication and operational transparency.

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There are discrepancies regarding the specifics of the incidents, particularly the timeline and the nature of the objects targeted by the laser systems. While the FAA initially closed airspace over El Paso for ten days, it was lifted after only eight hours, raising questions about the decision-making process. Additionally, the exact nature of the communication between the Department of Defense and the FAA leading up to these incidents remains unclear.

The Hill

• “Reports detailing communication between DoD and FAA leading up to these incidents and decisions to close the airspace in Texas show a concerning lack of coordination,” — Senator Tammy Duckworth

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• “ “We appreciate the coordination with the Department of War to help ensure public safety.” — FAA Statement

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This investigation into the use of high-energy lasers in anti-drone operations reflects broader concerns about aviation safety and interagency coordination in the face of increasing drone activity along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Reuters