The Defense Department shot down a U.S. Customs and Border Protection drone Wednesday in southwest Texas, near the community of Fort Hancock. A laser weapon was used in the incident, according to a U.S. Official.
Airspace Restrictions and Agency Coordination
The action occurred as the Department of War – the White House’s preferred term for the Defense Department – was employing authorities to address what it described as a “seemingly threatening unmanned aerial system” operating within military airspace. The Department of War, CBP, and the FAA stated the engagement took place away from populated areas and did not impact commercial air traffic.
Following the incident, the FAA expanded a temporary flight restriction already in place around Fort Hancock, citing “Special Security Reasons.” The FAA stated the restriction would not affect commercial flights.
The event prompted criticism from Democratic Representatives Rick Larsen, André Carson, and Bennie Thompson, members of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. They expressed concern over a lack of coordination between agencies, stating, “Our heads are exploding over the news that DoD reportedly shot down a Customs and Border Protection drone using a high risk counter-unmanned aircraft system.”
Earlier this month, on February 11, the FAA briefly closed airspace around El Paso due to a disagreement with the Pentagon regarding military drone tests near Fort Bliss. Sources indicated those tests similarly involved a high-energy laser. The FAA initially announced a 10-day closure, but later reopened the airspace after White House officials cited Mexican cartel drones breaching U.S. Airspace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of weapon was used to down the drone?
A laser weapon was used to down the drone, according to a U.S. Official.
Where did this incident occur?
The incident occurred in the area of Fort Hancock, Texas, a small community located on the U.S.-Mexico border.
What did lawmakers say about the incident?
Democratic Representatives Rick Larsen, André Carson, and Bennie Thompson expressed concern over a lack of coordination between agencies and stated, “Our heads are exploding over the news that DoD reportedly shot down a Customs and Border Protection drone using a high risk counter-unmanned aircraft system.”
As agencies work to improve cooperation and communication, will these types of incidents become less frequent?
