US Military Used Laser to Take Down Border Protection Drone

Lawmakers say the incident was a case of mistaken identity that prompted airspace closures near the US-Mexico border.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Members of Congress say the U.S. military used a laser to shoot down a Customs and Border Protection drone near the U.S.-Mexico border, mistaking it for a 'seemingly threatening' drone. The incident prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to close additional airspace around Fort Hancock, about 50 miles southeast of El Paso. This was the second time in two weeks that a laser was fired in the area, with the previous incident involving CBP using the weapon without coordinating with the FAA.

Why it matters

The case of mistaken identity highlights ongoing coordination challenges between different government agencies responsible for border security and airspace management. It also underscores the growing threat of drones, which are increasingly being used by cartels to smuggle drugs and surveil border patrol officers, as well as the need for improved communication and training to respond to these threats.

The details

In the latest incident, the U.S. military used a laser to shoot down a CBP drone that was flying near the U.S.-Mexico border. The military is required to formally notify the FAA when it takes any counter-drone action inside U.S. airspace, but failed to do so in this case. This prompted the FAA to close additional airspace around Fort Hancock. The previous incident two weeks earlier also involved the use of an anti-drone laser, this time by CBP, which led to the FAA shutting down air traffic at El Paso airport and the surrounding area.

  • On February 27, 2026, the U.S. military used a laser to shoot down a CBP drone near the U.S.-Mexico border.
  • Two weeks prior, CBP used an anti-drone laser near Fort Bliss, prompting the FAA to shut down air traffic at El Paso airport and the surrounding area.

The players

U.S. Military

The armed forces of the United States responsible for national defense and security.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

A federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that is responsible for securing the country's borders and facilitating lawful trade and travel.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The agency of the United States Department of Transportation responsible for the regulation and oversight of civil aviation within the U.S.

Rick Larsen

A U.S. Representative from Washington state and a top Democrat on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

Tammy Duckworth

A U.S. Senator from Illinois and the ranking member on the Senate's Aviation Subcommittee.

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What they’re saying

“Our heads are exploding over the news.”

— Rick Larsen, U.S. Representative

“The Trump administration's incompetence continues to cause chaos in our skies.”

— Tammy Duckworth, U.S. Senator

What’s next

The FAA, CBP, and the Pentagon have pledged to work together more closely to mitigate drone threats along the U.S.-Mexico border. Lawmakers have also called for an independent investigation into the incident.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in coordinating between different government agencies responsible for border security and airspace management, as well as the growing threat of drones being used for illicit activities along the border. Improved communication, training, and technology will be crucial to addressing these issues.