Pentagon and FAA to Test Anti-Drone Lasers in New Mexico After Texas Airspace Closures
The Pentagon and the Federal Aviation Administration have reached an agreement to conduct anti-drone laser tests in New Mexico. This decision comes in response to two sudden airspace closures in Texas last month, which were triggered by the military's deployment of these lasers without prior notification to aviation authorities.
Addressing Safety Concerns Through Coordinated Testing
The newly announced testing is specifically designed to address FAA safety concerns, according to a military statement released on Friday. The tests are scheduled to take place over the weekend at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. This move follows growing concerns among lawmakers about a lack of coordination between agencies, particularly after an incident in early February when the Pentagon allowed U.S. Customs and Border Protection to use an anti-drone laser without informing the FAA.
The FAA, responsible for ensuring safety in the skies, responded by closing the airspace over El Paso for several hours, which stranded numerous travelers. The Trump administration stated that the action was intended to halt an incursion by Mexican cartel drones, a common occurrence along the southern border.
Incidents Leading to Increased Scrutiny
On February 26, the U.S. military used a laser to shoot down a drone near the U.S.-Mexico border that appeared threatening. It was later revealed that the drone actually belonged to Customs and Border Protection, as reported by lawmakers. This incident prompted the FAA to close the airspace around Fort Hancock, located approximately 50 miles southeast of El Paso.
In a separate statement, the FAA expressed appreciation for the coordination with the Department of War, emphasizing their joint efforts to ensure public safety. "The FAA and DOW are working with interagency partners to address emerging threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems while maintaining the safety of the National Airspace System," the agency said.
Regulatory Requirements and Calls for Investigation
Under current regulations, the military is required to formally notify the FAA when taking any counter-drone actions within U.S. airspace. The recent incidents have highlighted potential gaps in this process, leading to calls for greater oversight.
Illinois Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth, the ranking member on the Senate's Aviation Subcommittee, has called for an independent investigation following the two February incidents. Her advocacy underscores the need for improved communication and protocols to prevent future disruptions and ensure the safe integration of military technologies into civilian airspace.
