LOCUST Laser Allegedly Closes El Paso Airspace
The recent closure of airspace over El Paso, Texas, has sparked significant interest, especially regarding the involvement of the LOCUST laser directed energy weapon system. According to initial reports, this U.S. Army asset played a crucial role in the temporary flight restrictions implemented by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
What is the LOCUST Laser System?
The LOCUST (Low-Cost UAV Swarm Technology) is a 20-kilowatt-class laser weapon designed to counter small drones. Originally produced by AeroVironment, it is intended for use against aerial threats, which have become increasingly prevalent, particularly those operated by drug cartels along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Incident Overview
The airspace over El Paso was temporarily closed in response to unidentified drones, which officials later identified as potentially being operated by Mexican cartels. The restrictions were reported to have been enforced on February 11, 2026, amid heightened concerns regarding security breaches at the southern border.
Recent Developments
- The FAA imposed temporary flight restrictions following reports of cartel drone incursions.
- LOCUST laser systems were activated to respond to these threats, reportedly engaging and disabling a drone.
- Confusion ensued when initial reports mistakenly identified one drone as a party balloon.
Military Response and Reactions
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel utilized the LOCUST system under an agreement with the U.S. military. The use of this technology reflects an ongoing effort to combat drone threats effectively.
However, the operation’s execution raised questions regarding interagency coordination among the Army, CBP, and the FAA, especially given the nature of the drone classifications involved.
Political Implications
Political responses have varied, with Texas Senator Ted Cruz emphasizing the need for more information on the airspace closure. Meanwhile, Representative Veronica Escobar criticized the information provided by the administration, suggesting it reflected poorly on higher levels of government.
Future Considerations
The incident in El Paso highlights a growing emphasis on deploying laser directed energy systems, such as LOCUST, for counter-drone missions. As uncrewed aerial systems continue to evolve, the strategic importance of addressing these aerial threats will only increase.
As the situation surrounding the airspace closure develops, further insights are expected to emerge regarding LOCUST’s operational deployment and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
