Why is the U.S. government exploring using high-energy lasers near the southern border?

February 14, 2026

TL;DR

A temporary flight ban near El Paso was caused by federal government disagreements over using a high-energy laser weapon system to take down drones.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) used the laser system, despite the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) having safety concerns.
The system detects aerial threats and uses a laser beam to damage or disable targets like drones.
During testing, the high-energy laser system took down at least one party balloon instead of a drone.
Drones, primarily used by cartels for surveillance and smuggling, are a persistent problem along the U.S. southern border.
A joint task force is working to coordinate federal agencies in countering drone threats.
Experts suggest a layered defense system, including radio frequency cyber techniques and high-energy lasers, is necessary.
The initiative highlights the need for better communication and coordination between the FAA and the Department of Defense (DOD).

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