Military Laser Strike Downs Border Patrol Drone, Triggers Airspace Closure

Friday, February 27, 2026 at 1:16 AM

Congressional representatives revealed Thursday that the U.S. military deployed laser technology to destroy a Customs and Border Protection drone. The incident prompted aviation officials to expand restricted airspace around El Paso, Texas.

Congressional representatives disclosed Thursday that the United States military deployed laser technology to destroy a drone operated by Customs and Border Protection, prompting aviation authorities to expand flight restrictions around El Paso, Texas.

The Federal Aviation Administration responded to the incident by implementing additional airspace closures in the El Paso area following the military’s use of directed energy weapons against the border security aircraft.

Members of Congress made the revelation about the laser strike on the CBP drone during Thursday proceedings, though additional details about the circumstances surrounding the incident remain limited.

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