U.S. authorities have determined that a high-energy laser system designed to shoot down drones “does not pose an undue risk to passenger aircraft,” following its deployment on the border with Mexico that caused flight disruptions earlier this year. In a joint statement, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and the Pentagon affirmed they had conducted a thorough safety evaluation and ensured proper protocols were in place. The announcement comes after the military mistakenly shot down a drone from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency near the border in February. Sources familiar with the incident indicated that the Department of Defense failed to adequately coordinate with the FAA before using the high-energy laser. This event was similar to one that occurred two weeks prior, when the same high-energy laser was used, leading to the temporary closure of airspace near El Paso, Texas, due to FAA concerns about potential impacts on passenger flights at a nearby airport. These incidents prompted increased scrutiny of the Pentagon, the Department of Homeland Security, and the FAA, and also led lawmakers to demand better communication and coordination among government agencies. In March, the agencies conducted joint tests of the laser system to address FAA safety concerns. According to Friday’s statement, the Department of Defense “will continue to coordinate with the FAA to employ this system safely and ensure that civil aircraft, pilots, navigation equipment, or air traffic control services are not affected”.
U.S. Authorities Approve Laser Drone System
Following flight disruptions on the Mexico border, U.S. authorities have completed a safety review of a high-energy laser drone system. The Pentagon and FAA confirmed the system poses no risk to passenger aircraft and will be used with proper protocols.
