Pentagon and FAA Sign Agreement on Anti-Drone Laser Deployment Near Mexico Border

The Pentagon and FAA signed a formal agreement governing deployment of a high-energy counter-drone laser system near the US-Mexico border, resolving a months-long interagency dispute. The conflict erupted in February when the Pentagon authorized CBP to use the laser, which shot down a mylar party balloon mistaken for a cartel drone, without completing FAA safety review, prompting an emergency 10-day shutdown of El Paso airspace. The agreement establishes coordination protocols for future use of directed energy weapons near civilian aviation corridors.