Us Military Accidentally Shoots Down Border Patrol Drone In Texas

On February 27, 2026, the U.S. military accidentally shot down a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) drone using a high-energy laser system near the Texas-Mexico border, leading to significant backlash and airspace restrictions. Lawmakers criticized the incident as preventable, with one congressional aide stating, "This incident raises serious questions about the management of military airspace and the protocols in place for engaging unmanned aerial systems." Following the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposed new airspace closures around Fort Hancock, Texas, citing 'special security reasons' for the restrictions, which were noted in their Notam alert system. This incident marks the second occurrence of a military laser shooting down a drone within the month, intensifying concerns over the safety and management of airspace in the region, particularly given the frequent incursions by drones associated with drug cartels.