POLITICS

Fort Hancock Drone Downed by Military Laser, FAA Restricts Airspace

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Fort Hancock Drone Downed by Military Laser, FAA Restricts Airspace

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 9

Left 29%

Center 43%

Right 29%

Sources: 9

Fort Hancock, Texas — U.S. military reportedly used a laser-based counter-unmanned aircraft system to shoot down a Customs and Border Protection drone Thursday, prompting the FAA to impose temporary flight restrictions over the area. Congressional Democrats said they were notified and criticized coordination between the Department of Defense, DHS and the FAA. Officials from the Pentagon, CBP and FAA did not immediately comment. The incident follows a separate anti-drone laser deployment near El Paso weeks earlier that also prompted FAA airspace closures. Investigations and inquiries by lawmakers and agencies are ongoing. Based on 7 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Weeks earlier: an anti-drone laser deployment near El Paso triggered FAA airspace closures.
Feb 26: Congressional aides reported the Pentagon reportedly used a laser to down a CBP drone near Fort Hancock.
Feb 26 evening: FAA issued a temporary flight restriction over Fort Hancock citing special security reasons.
Feb 26-27: Reps. Larsen, Thompson and Carson released a joint statement criticizing coordination and operator training.
Following days: Press outlets reported no immediate public comment from the Pentagon or CBP and investigations/inquiries were initiated.

Why This Matters to You

This incident may affect your travel plans if you're flying in or out of Texas. It also raises questions about safety and coordination among government agencies. Keep an eye on FAA announcements for any flight restrictions.

The Bottom Line

The military's use of lasers to down drones is a new development. It's unclear how often this will happen or how it'll impact airspace rules. Worth forwarding if you know someone who flies drones or is interested in aviation safety.