O Administração Federal da Aviação has concluded that counter-drone laser systems can be used safely in U.S. airspace, following a review triggered by temporary flight disruptions in Texas earlier this year.
The assessment comes after coordination issues led to multiple airspace closures near El Paso International Airport in February. In one instance, the FAA halted flights for several hours after a government agency deployed a counter-drone laser without notifying aviation authorities. A second, more limited closure followed a military engagement involving a drone later identified as belonging to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Under a new agreement between the FAA and the U.S. Department of Defense, specific safety protocols will govern the use of directed energy systems to ensure they do not pose a risk to civilian aircraft. The decision paves the way for expanded deployment of counter-drone lasers along the U.S. southern border.
A key part of the review included a demonstration at Campo de mísseis de White Sands, where officials evaluated the systems’ safety and operational impact. Following the test, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said the agency would continue working with partners to balance airspace safety with emerging drone threats.
Drones have become a persistent concern along the border, with officials previously reporting tens of thousands of detections in recent years. These systems are often used by criminal groups and cartels for surveillance and smuggling operations.
The agreement also follows scrutiny from lawmakers over a lack of coordination between agencies. In one case in late February, a “seemingly threatening” drone was shot down near the border, only to be later identified as a U.S. government-operated platform.
Officials say the updated framework will improve communication between agencies and prevent unnecessary disruptions to air travel, while enabling more consistent use of counter-drone technologies.
Matt Ross said the agreement demonstrates that advanced counter-drone tools can be deployed safely to protect the homeland. He added that closer coordination between agencies would ensure both effective defense and the continued safety of the national airspace.
The move comes as the US government increases funding for counter-drone preparedness, with hundreds of millions of dollars allocated to help states and federal agencies strengthen defenses ahead of major national events.
CONTEÚDO RELACIONADO: FAA suspende o encerramento do espaço aéreo de El Paso depois de o laser anti-drone ter alegadamente atingido um balão
Post Image Credit: El Paso International Airport
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