FAA, DoD Agree on Laser Systems for Border Drones

The Federal Aviation Administration and the Department of Defense announced on Friday an agreement allowing the military to deploy high-energy laser systems to counter drones along the U.S. southern border, following a safety review that addressed risks to civilian aircraft.

The joint statement from the agencies concluded that, with specified precautions, the lasers pose no increased risk to air travelers. This decision resolves tensions that led to temporary airspace closures in Texas earlier this year, when uncoordinated use of the technology disrupted flights near El Paso and Fort Hancock. Officials conducted the assessment after demonstrations last month at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, where they evaluated the system's impact on aircraft and navigation.

The incidents prompting the review occurred in February. On February 10, authorities fired a laser at what was initially reported as a potential threat but turned out to be a metallic balloon, prompting the FAA to close airspace over El Paso International Airport up to 18,000 feet. The closure, announced without prior notice to other agencies, was set for 10 days but lifted after less than seven hours amid...