U.S. Military Accidentally Downs Customs Drone with Laser Weapon in Texas
In Brief
A U.S. military laser weapon mistakenly shot down a Customs and Border Protection drone in Texas.
Key Facts
- A U.S. military laser weapon accidentally shot down a Customs and Border Protection drone in Texas.
- The incident occurred near Fort Hancock, Texas, on Wednesday.
- The Federal Aviation Administration closed airspace around the area following the incident.
- Members of Congress and federal officials confirmed the use of a laser weapon.
- The Pentagon, FAA, and CBP acknowledged the military acted under counter-unmanned aircraft system authorities.
What Happened
On Wednesday, a U.S. military laser weapon mistakenly shot down a Customs and Border Protection drone operating near Fort Hancock, Texas. The Federal Aviation Administration responded by closing airspace in the region, and federal officials confirmed the incident. Congressional members and agencies acknowledged the military used counter-unmanned aircraft system authorities.
Why It Matters
The event highlights potential risks in military drone defense operations and coordination between agencies. It raises questions about airspace safety and the protocols for identifying and mitigating unmanned aerial systems, especially near sensitive borders.
Sources
- The Guardian — Texas airspace closed after military reportedly downs US drone on accident(16h ago)
- The Independent — Lawmakers say US military used laser to take down Border Protection drone(15h ago)
- ABC News — Dept. of Defense shoots down Customs and Border Protection drone in Texas: Officials(15h ago)