Military Laser System Accidentally Downs US Drone, Prompts Texas Airspace Closure

Aviation officials shut down airspace around Fort Hancock, Texas on Thursday following reports that Pentagon anti-drone laser technology mistakenly shot down a U.S. Customs and Border Protection aircraft. Democratic lawmakers criticized the military for poor coordination in the incident near the Mexican border.

Aviation authorities have implemented flight restrictions around Fort Hancock, Texas following an incident where Pentagon officials reportedly used laser-based anti-drone technology to mistakenly destroy a U.S. government aircraft.

The Federal Aviation Administration announced the airspace closure Thursday, referencing “special security reasons” for the ban on flights in the border region with Mexico. Neither the FAA nor Pentagon provided immediate statements regarding the incident.

Three prominent Democratic legislators – Representatives Rick Larsen, Bennie Thompson, and Andre Carson – issued a joint statement condemning what they described as inadequate communication between agencies. The lawmakers, who lead committees focused on aviation and homeland security matters, confirmed that Pentagon forces had reportedly destroyed a Customs and Border Protection drone.

Sources within Congress told reporters that military personnel accidentally targeted the CBP aircraft using high-powered laser weaponry in a region frequently penetrated by cartel-operated drones from Mexico. The White House and Customs and Border Protection have not yet responded to media inquiries.

This incident follows similar disruptions earlier this month when aviation officials temporarily suspended operations at El Paso’s airport for what was initially planned as a 10-day closure, only to lift the restriction within eight hours. Fort Hancock sits approximately 50 miles from El Paso.

Media outlets previously reported that the El Paso airport closure resulted from safety concerns surrounding the military’s laser-based drone defense system. The FAA reportedly agreed to remove El Paso restrictions after the Pentagon committed to postponing additional testing while safety evaluations are conducted.

Congressional staff members highlighted the communication breakdown between aviation regulators and military officials. Government representatives briefed legislative offices about both the El Paso situation and the Fort Hancock event late Thursday.

The current flight ban covers all aircraft in the Fort Hancock vicinity, though emergency medical and search-and-rescue missions may receive authorization through the Joint Task Force-Southern Border. These aviation restrictions will remain active through June 24.