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Fort Hancock Today
By the People, for the People
Texas Airspace Shutdown Triggered by DHS Drone
Lawmakers demand probe into second uncoordinated drone shoot-down near US-Mexico border
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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The Pentagon used a high-energy laser to bring down a "seemingly threatening" drone that turned out to belong to the Department of Homeland Security above Fort Hancock, Texas, forcing the FAA to briefly close the airspace below 18,000 feet. This incident closely mirrors a previous mishap earlier this month near El Paso, where border officials using the same military-provided system blasted a metallic balloon they thought was a drug-cartel drone, prompting a short-lived flight restriction.
Why it matters
The laser strikes were carried out without the FAA's approval, which aviation safety experts say likely violates federal law. Democratic lawmakers are criticizing the coordination failure between the powerful agencies involved and are calling for investigations and legislation to improve training and communication around counter-drone operations.
The details
In both cases, the lasers were fired by the military without the FAA's authorization, a move that aviation safety experts say likely runs afoul of federal law. A preliminary internal report says Customs and Border Protection never told the Pentagon it was flying a drone, so the military treated it as an unidentified craft. The Pentagon, DHS, and FAA have issued a joint statement insisting they're "working together", even as Democrats call for inspectors general to investigate and push legislation to tighten training and communication around counter-drone operations.
- On February 27, 2026, the Pentagon used a high-energy laser to bring down a DHS drone above Fort Hancock, Texas.
- Earlier in February 2026, border officials using the same military-provided system blasted a metallic balloon they thought was a drug-cartel drone near El Paso, Texas.
The players
Pentagon
The United States Department of Defense, the executive department of the federal government responsible for coordinating and supervising all agencies and functions of the government relating directly to national security and the United States Armed Forces.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
A federal executive department of the United States government, responsible for public security, with the primary mission of securing the United States.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
An agency of the United States Department of Transportation with authority to regulate and oversee all aspects of civil aviation in the country.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
