Fort Hancock Drone Downed by Military Laser, FAA Restricts Airspace
PUBLISHED Feb 26, 2026, 11:29 PM ET
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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.
By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News
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.
News Intelligence
- 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.
- Articles Published:
- 9
- Right Leaning:
- 2
- Left Leaning:
- 2
- Neutral:
- 5
- Distribution:
- Left 22%, Center 56%, Right 22%
Federal agencies received increased public and congressional scrutiny that may prompt procedural reviews and policy discussions.
A Customs and Border Protection drone was reportedly destroyed and regional airspace experienced temporary restrictions disrupting local operations.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
U.S. military used laser to take down Border Protection drone, lawmakers say
NBC News The Boston GlobeFrom Center
Fort Hancock Drone Downed by Military Laser, FAA Restricts Airspace
Local3News.com The Dallas Morning News The Straits Times thesun.my Malay MailFrom Right
FAA Closes Airspace in Fort Hancock Texas After Reported Accidental Use of Anti-Drone Laser
NTD FOX 4 News Dallas-Fort Worth
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