By Trendsetter Tribune 
Lawmakers have confirmed that the U.S. military accidentally shot down a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) drone using a high-energy laser weapon near Fort Hancock, Texas, on February 26, 2026.
According to reports and statements from federal officials, the incident occurred due to a breakdown in coordination between the Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Key Details of the Incident
- Weapon Used: A high-energy laser weapon system deployed by the military.
- Target: A CBP drone that was mistaken for a threatening unmanned aircraft system operating within military airspace.
- Location: Near Fort Hancock, Texas, approximately 50 miles southeast of El Paso.
- Aftermath: The FAA expanded temporary flight restrictions in the area to ensure safety.
Congressional Response
Members of Congress, particularly top Democrats on committees overseeing aviation and homeland security, sharply criticized the incident.
“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… Now, we’re seeing the result of [the administration’s] incompetence.” — Joint Statement from Representatives Rick Larsen, Bennie Thompson, and André Carson
Lawmakers had previously warned about the lack of coordination between federal agencies regarding the deployment of counter-drone technology along the border.
Context and Previous Incidents
This incident marks the second time this month that the use of counter-drone technology near the southern border has prompted airspace restrictions. Earlier in February, an incident involving a laser system led to a brief closure of airspace around El Paso International Airport.