Technology
Military laser deployment correlates with drop in border drone activity, CBS News reports
CBS News reports that U.S. officials observed a 75% drop in border drone incursions after deploying a new high-energy laser.
The short version
- Military officials told CBS News that cartel-linked drone probing along the Rio Grande Valley dropped roughly 75% after the operational debut of a high-energy laser weapon.[CBS News]
- The AeroVironment-built LOCUST system intercepted 11 drones in 10 days, contributing to 300 stopped cartel-linked drones this year.[CBS News]
- Officials noted that the drop could also stem from cartels shifting routes, while the technology faces atmospheric limitations like rain or vapor.[CBS News]
Key facts
- Military officials reported an estimated 75% decrease in cartel-linked drone activity probing the Rio Grande Valley border sector after introducing a high-energy laser.[CBS News]
- The laser system downed three drones during its debut on August 25 and 26 and neutralized 11 drones across a ten-day window.[CBS News]
- The U.S. Army recently awarded AeroVironment a $465 million contract for high-energy lasers, using a version of the company's LOCUST system.[CBS News]
- Atmospheric conditions such as rain or vapor can weaken the laser beam's operational strength.[CBS News]
What remains uncertain
- Military officials acknowledged the decline in observed drone activity may be caused by alternative factors, such as cartels altering their flight paths.[CBS News]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.
- Drone activity at border drops 75% after U.S. uses laser weapon, military saysCBS News - Top Stories