FAA and Department of Defense Agree on Laser Use for Drone Threats at Southern Border
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Defense have reached an agreement on the use of high-energy laser systems to counter drone threats along the southern U.S. border. This decision follows a comprehensive safety assessment and demonstrations conducted at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, which confirmed that these systems do not pose undue risks to passenger aircraft. Previously, the FAA had closed airspace over El Paso, Texas, after a laser system was used without prior notification, leading to the temporary shutdown of the city's airport. The agreement ensures that the National Airspace System remains safe while addressing emerging drone threats. 
