The Pentagon and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have reached an agreement to conduct anti-drone laser tests in New Mexico. This decision comes after the military's deployment of laser technology resulted in the FAA unexpectedly closing airspace in Texas twice within the last month. The new testing is specifically aimed at addressing safety concerns raised by the FAA, as noted in a statement from the military released on Friday.
The testing is scheduled to take place at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico on Saturday and Sunday. This strategic location allows for a controlled environment in which to evaluate the effectiveness of anti-drone measures without compromising the safety of civilian air traffic. Lawmakers have expressed concern over the apparent lack of coordination between the military and the FAA following a recent incident where U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) utilized an anti-drone laser in early February without informing the FAA.
The FAA's decision to close airspace over El Paso, Texas, for several hours created significant disruptions, leaving many travelers stranded. The Trump administration had initiated these laser tests to counteract incursions by drones associated with Mexican cartels, which have increasingly become a problem along the southern U.S. border.
On February 26, the military utilized the laser technology to shoot down a drone deemed "seemingly threatening" that was operating near the U.S.-Mexico border. However, it was later revealed that the drone belonged to Customs and Border Protection. This incident prompted the FAA to temporarily close airspace around Fort Hancock, situated approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) southeast of El Paso.
The FAA expressed appreciation for the coordination with the Department of War, emphasizing the importance of public safety in their operations. The FAA and the Department of War are collaborating with various interagency partners to tackle emerging threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems while prioritizing the safety of the National Airspace System. Additionally, the military is obligated to formally notify the FAA when engaging in any counter-drone action within U.S. airspace.
Illinois Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth, who serves as the ranking member on the Senate's Aviation Subcommittee, has called for an independent investigation into the two incidents that occurred in February. This highlights the ongoing scrutiny regarding the coordination between military operations and FAA regulations, aiming to ensure public safety and effective air traffic management.
