FAA Approves Safe Use of Anti-Drone Lasers Near Southern Border

Interagency agreement outlines precautions for protecting flights from cartel drones

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:18am

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A serene, photorealistic painting of an anti-drone laser system standing alone in a desert landscape, with warm sunlight casting deep shadows across the scene, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation around the use of this emerging technology.As the U.S. government invests millions to combat the growing drone threat, new counter-drone technologies are being carefully integrated to protect both national security and air travel safety.White Sands Today

The Federal Aviation Administration has announced that anti-drone lasers used by the U.S. military and Homeland Security near the southern border are safe for flights, after a review prompted by airspace closures in Texas earlier this year. The FAA and Defense Department have signed an agreement outlining the safety precautions that will be employed when these lasers are used to combat cartel drones.

Why it matters

Drones have become a growing threat along the U.S. southern border, with Mexican cartels using them to deliver drugs and surveil officers. The use of armed drones in conflicts like Ukraine and Iran has highlighted the potential dangers. This agreement aims to allow the use of advanced counter-drone technology while ensuring the safety of air travelers.

The details

In early February, the FAA closed the airspace around the El Paso airport for several hours after another agency used a counter-drone laser without notifying the aviation safety regulator, disrupting many travelers. A second, more limited airspace closure followed the military shooting down a drone owned by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. After a demonstration at White Sands Missile Range, the FAA determined the lasers can be used safely with proper precautions.

  • In early February 2026, the FAA closed the airspace around El Paso airport after another agency used a counter-drone laser without notifying the FAA.
  • On February 26, 2026, the military used the laser to shoot down a 'seemingly threatening' drone near the U.S.-Mexico border, which turned out to belong to Customs and Border Protection.
  • Last month, a demonstration of the lasers was conducted at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.

The players

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

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

U.S. Department of Defense

The executive department of the U.S. federal government responsible for coordinating and supervising all agencies and functions of the government directly related to national security and the U.S. Armed Forces.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

A federal law enforcement agency of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security charged with regulating and facilitating international trade, collecting import duties, and enforcing U.S. regulations, including immigration and drug laws.

Bryan Bedford

FAA Administrator.

Matt Ross

U.S. Army Brigadier General.

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What they’re saying

“We will continue working with our interagency partners to ensure the National Airspace System remains safe while addressing emerging drone threats.”

— Bryan Bedford, FAA Administrator

“By working hand-in-hand with the FAA and our interagency partners, the Department of War is proving that these cutting-edge capabilities are safe, effective, and ready to protect all air travelers from illicit drone use in the national airspace.”

— Matt Ross, U.S. Army Brigadier General

What’s next

The U.S. government has handed out more than $250 million to help states prepare to respond to drones before hosting World Cup matches and celebrations planned this summer for the country's 250th birthday. Another $250 million in grants will be awarded later this year to strengthen the nation's drone defenses.

The takeaway

This agreement between the FAA and Defense Department aims to allow the use of advanced counter-drone technology along the southern border while ensuring the safety of air travelers. It highlights the growing threat of drones, particularly from Mexican cartels, and the need for coordinated efforts to address this emerging national security challenge.