The Pentagon and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will carry out testing of a high-energy anti-drone laser system in New Mexico this weekend, the Pentagon announced on Friday. The evaluation aims to address FAA safety concerns while collecting data on the laser’s effects on aircraft surrogates, verifying automated safety shut-off systems, and assessing aircrew eye safety.
The U.S. military recently mistakenly used a laser-based system to down a government drone on February 25, which led the FAA to expand flight restrictions near Fort Hancock, Texas. Earlier, on February 18, the FAA had temporarily halted flights at the El Paso airport but reversed the decision hours later.
U.S. Deputy Transportation Secretary Steve Bradbury stated that the testing is essential for the FAA to better understand the system’s limitations and operational controls. He emphasized the need for a regulatory framework that ensures airspace safety without requiring case-by-case approvals for the laser’s use. Without such a framework, the FAA may need to impose flight restrictions if necessary, though officials aim to complete safety assessments swiftly. Both agencies acknowledged the importance of coordination to balance security and aviation operations.
Following a classified briefing, lawmakers noted that recent incidents highlighted operational challenges in counter-drone technology. Senate Commerce Committee Chair Ted Cruz remarked that effective coordination remains crucial for implementing these technologies safely.