FAA and DOW Sign Landmark Safety Agreement for Border Drone Defense

New high-energy laser counter-drone system validated as safe for passenger aircraft

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:35pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A serene, photorealistic painting of a high-energy laser counter-drone system mounted on a military vehicle, its sleek lines and muted colors conveying a sense of quiet power and technological sophistication.The FAA and DOW's collaboration on advanced counter-drone technology aims to safeguard the national airspace while addressing emerging security threats.Washington Today

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Department of War (DOW) have completed a thorough safety assessment of a new high-energy laser counter-drone system, validating that proper safety controls are in place and the system does not pose undue risk to passenger aircraft. The two agencies will continue to coordinate on the safe employment of this cutting-edge counter-drone technology to protect the homeland.

Why it matters

This agreement represents a significant advancement in the government's efforts to address the growing threat of illicit drone use near airports and along the US southern border. By working together, the FAA and DOW are ensuring that new counter-drone capabilities can be deployed safely without compromising aviation safety.

The details

After observing demonstrations of the system last month, the FAA and DOW determined that the high-energy laser counter-drone technology meets all necessary safety standards. The agencies will continue to coordinate to ensure civilian aircraft, pilots, navigation equipment, and air traffic services are not impacted by the system's deployment.

  • The safety assessment was completed in April 2026.
  • The FAA and DOW observed demonstrations of the counter-drone system last month.

The players

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The US government agency responsible for the regulation and oversight of civil aviation.

Department of War (DOW)

The US government agency responsible for national defense and security, including the development of advanced military technologies.

Bryan Bedford

The current FAA administrator.

Matt Ross

A US Army Brigadier General and the director of JIATF-401, the agency overseeing the development of the counter-drone technology.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The FAA's top priority is protecting the safety of the American flying public, and we value the collaboration with the Department of War in that effort.”

— Bryan Bedford, FAA Administrator

“This successful test showcases the significant advancements we're making in counter-drone technology to ensure that our warfighters have the most advanced tools to defend the homeland.”

— Matt Ross, US Army Brigadier General, Director of JIATF-401

What’s next

The DOW will continue to coordinate with the FAA to safely employ the counter-drone system and ensure it does not impact civilian aviation.

The takeaway

This landmark agreement between the FAA and DOW demonstrates the government's commitment to addressing emerging drone threats while maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety. The successful validation of this counter-drone technology paves the way for its broader deployment along the US southern border and other sensitive areas.