Pentagon let CBP use anti-drone laser before FAA closed El Paso airspace

In a series of unexpected developments, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced a temporary closure of airspace over El Paso, Texas, due to security concerns associated with drone activity. This measure, intended to last for ten days, stranded travelers and caused significant disruption. However, the airspace was reopened within just a few hours, leading to confusion about the necessity and duration of the closure. The situation was further complicated by reports that the Pentagon had permitted Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to utilize an anti-drone laser system prior to the FAA's declaration. This decision raised questions about the coordination between federal agencies and the impact of military technology on civilian airspace. As El Paso is a key border city, the implications of such decisions could have far-reaching effects on security and travel in the region. The rapid response to the airspace closure highlights the ongoing challenges in managing drone threats while balancing the need for public safety and operational efficiency in air traffic management.