Texas airspace shut after Pentagon shoots down border patrol drone:
The Pentagon shot down the drone because CBP didn't coordinate with the department ...
axios.com/2026/02/27/texas-airspace-closed-drone-laser-pentagon-us-border-mexico
Photo: axios.com · view article
Pentagon Downs Drone, Texas Airspace RestrictedA no-fly zone near Fort Hancock was imposed after the Pentagon used laser tech to shoot down a border patrol drone in February.
Key FactsFeb 27, 2026 · Reading time: ~45 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: axios.com
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: axios.com
- The FAA issued a flight restriction near the Mexico border following the Pentagon's accidental downing of a border patrol drone.
- A military laser-based anti-drone system was used without coordination between Customs and Border Protection, the Defense Department, or the FAA.
- Under President Trump’s direction, agencies are collaborating intensively to counter drone threats from cartels and foreign terrorists at the border.
- The temporary flight restriction effective until June 24 excludes commercial flights and allows exemptions for medical and rescue operations.
acted swiftly to address a cartel drone incursion.— Sean Duffy, Transportation Secretary, describing the Trump administration's position that the FAA and DoD acted swiftly to address a cartel drone incursion.
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Main Topics
aircraft intended for use without onboard human crew members
measures taken to regulate the movement of goods and people across borders
News on this topic
Texas airspace shut after Pentagon shoots down border patrol drone: The Pentagon shot down the drone because CBP didn't coordinate with the department ...
axios.com/2026/02/27/texas-airspace-closed-drone-laser-pentagon-us-border-mexico
Hegseth forces used high-energy laser to shoot down CBP drone over Texas — again — forcing airspace shutdown
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