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US Military Used Laser to Take Down Border Protection Drone
Lawmakers criticize Trump administration for 'sidestepping' drone safety legislation
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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The U.S. military used a laser to shoot down a Customs and Border Protection drone near El Paso, Texas, according to members of Congress. This is the second time in two weeks that a laser has been fired in the area, prompting the Federal Aviation Administration to close airspace around Fort Hancock. Lawmakers criticized the Trump administration for failing to properly coordinate between the Pentagon, FAA, and Department of Homeland Security on drone safety issues.
Why it matters
The use of lasers against drones raises concerns about coordination and communication between government agencies responsible for national security and aviation safety. Lawmakers argue the incident highlights ongoing dysfunction and a lack of proper protocols to ensure the safe operation of drones near airports and populated areas.
The details
In the latest incident, the U.S. military used a laser to take down a Customs and Border Protection drone near Fort Hancock, Texas. This comes two weeks after a similar laser firing by the CBP near Fort Bliss, which prompted the FAA to shut down air traffic at the El Paso airport. While the reasons for the laser use are unclear, lawmakers criticized the Trump administration for failing to properly train drone operators and improve communication between the Pentagon, FAA, and Department of Homeland Security.
- On February 26, 2026, the U.S. military used a laser to shoot down a CBP drone near Fort Hancock, Texas.
- Two weeks prior, on February 12, 2026, the CBP deployed an anti-drone laser near Fort Bliss, leading the FAA to temporarily shut down air traffic at the El Paso airport.
The players
U.S. Military
The armed forces of the United States, responsible for national security and defense.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
A federal law enforcement agency under the Department of Homeland Security, tasked with border security and customs enforcement.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
The national aviation authority of the United States, responsible for the regulation and oversight of civil aviation.
U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen
A Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, serving on the Transportation and Infrastructure committee.
What they’re saying
“Our heads are exploding over the news. Now, we're seeing the result of its incompetence.”
— U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen, Democratic member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure committee
What’s next
The FAA has expanded the airspace closure around Fort Hancock, Texas in response to the latest incident. Lawmakers have indicated they plan to further investigate the coordination and communication issues between government agencies regarding drone safety.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring proper coordination and communication between the military, law enforcement, and aviation authorities when it comes to the safe operation of drones near airports and populated areas. It underscores the need for clear protocols and training to prevent similar disruptions to commercial air travel in the future.
