FAA and Pentagon Approve High-Energy Laser System for Counter-Drone Operations Along U.S.-Mexico Border

On April 10, 2026, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Pentagon announced a significant agreement permitting the deployment of a high-energy laser counter-drone system along the southern U.S. border with Mexico. This decision follows extensive safety assessments conducted in New Mexico, which confirmed that the system poses no undue risk to commercial passenger aircraft. The agreement aims to address the increasing threat posed by drones, particularly those linked to Mexican drug cartels.

The Straits TimesFAA and Pentagon Approve Laser Counter-Drone System Along U.S.-Mexico BorderStars and StripesNew York Times

The path to this agreement was marked by safety concerns stemming from two incidents in February 2026. On February 18, the FAA abruptly closed airspace around El Paso International Airport for nearly ten days after a Homeland Security agency activated the laser system without completing the necessary FAA safety review. This closure caused significant disruption, affecting both public travel and medical flights. The shutdown was lifted shortly after White House intervention. Subsequently, on February 25, the military accidentally destroyed one of its own drones using the laser system, prompting the FAA to extend no-fly zones around Fort Hancock, Texas.

Stars and StripesFAA and Pentagon Approve Laser Counter-Drone System Along U.S.-Mexico BorderThe Straits TimesNew York Times

Following these incidents, the FAA conducted a thorough Safety Risk Assessment, which concluded that the high-energy laser systems do not present an increased risk to the flying public. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford stated, “Following a thorough, data-informed Safety Risk Assessment, we determined that these systems do not present an increased risk to the flying public.” The Pentagon has reported over 1,000 drone incursions along the U.S.-Mexico border each month, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Stars and Stripes

Despite the FAA's assurances, concerns remain regarding the decision-making process that led to the agreement. Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth has called for federal oversight bodies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the system's early use and the temporary airport closures. Additionally, Senator Maria Cantwell has requested a briefing from the Pentagon and FAA to clarify the motivations behind the agreement, suggesting that there may be pressure on the FAA to approve the Pentagon's plans.

The Straits Times

The FAA is expected to issue advisories to pilots operating near the southern border, alerting them to the increased use of anti-drone lasers in the area. The Pentagon and FAA will continue to coordinate efforts to ensure that the deployment of these systems does not interfere with civilian aircraft operations, navigation equipment, or air traffic services.

FAA and Pentagon Approve Laser Counter-Drone System Along U.S.-Mexico Border

• “Following a thorough, data-informed Safety Risk Assessment, we determined that these systems do not present an increased risk to the flying public,” — Bryan Bedford, FAA Administrator

The Straits Times

• “Army Brigadier General Matt Ross highlighted the system as a major step forward in homeland defense technology.” — Brigadier General Matt Ross, U.S. Army

FAA and Pentagon Approve Laser Counter-Drone System Along U.S.-Mexico Border

The deployment of the high-energy laser system represents a pivotal moment in the U.S. government's efforts to combat drone threats along the border, while also raising important questions about airspace safety and regulatory oversight.

FAA and Pentagon Approve Laser Counter-Drone System Along U.S.-Mexico Border