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Dept. of Defense Shoots Down CBP Drone Near El Paso
Incident raises questions about coordination between military, DHS, and FAA over airspace security
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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The Department of Defense mistakenly shot down a Customs and Border Protection drone over El Paso, Texas, according to a statement from House representatives and a congressional aide. The incident has prompted criticism from Congressional Democrats over the White House's handling of counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) operations and coordination between government agencies.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the need for better communication and coordination between the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the Federal Aviation Administration when it comes to securing airspace and responding to potential threats from drones, especially near the U.S.-Mexico border where cartel activity is a concern.
The details
The Department of Defense employed counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) authorities to mitigate what was perceived as a threatening drone operating within military airspace near El Paso. The engagement occurred far from populated areas and did not impact commercial flights. However, Congressional Democrats have criticized the White House for not properly addressing coordination issues between agencies on C-UAS operations.
- The incident occurred on February 27, 2026.
- The FAA had previously imposed a 10-day shutdown of airspace within a 10-mile radius of El Paso earlier in February 2026, which was related to the military neutralizing cartel drones.
The players
Department of Defense
The U.S. military agency responsible for national security and defense.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
A federal law enforcement agency under the Department of Homeland Security that is responsible for border security.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
The agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation responsible for the regulation and oversight of civil aviation.
President Donald Trump
The 45th President of the United States at the time of this incident.
Rick Larsen, André Carson, Bennie G. Thompson
Ranking members of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure who criticized the White House's handling of the incident.
What they’re saying
“Our heads are exploding over the news that DoD reportedly shot down a Customs and Border Protection drone using a high risk counter-unmanned aircraft system.”
— Rick Larsen, André Carson, Bennie G. Thompson, Ranking members, House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure (ABC News)
What’s next
The Pentagon, CBP, and FAA have stated they will work to improve cooperation and communication to prevent such incidents in the future.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the need for better coordination and clear protocols between the military, homeland security, and aviation authorities when it comes to responding to potential drone threats, especially in sensitive border regions.
