US Army Deploys LOCUST Laser Near El Paso Airport

The U.S. Army deployed AeroVironment’s LOCUST laser counter-drone system near El Paso International Airport on Wednesday, Feb. 11, triggering a seven-hour airspace shutdown, according to two sources briefed on the situation.

The testing involved directed-energy weapons designed to counter unmanned aerial systems, particularly drones that could potentially be used by drug cartels operating along the U.S.–Mexico border. Three sources said the laser systems were being evaluated as part of broader efforts to strengthen defenses against cross-border drone incursions.

The deployment occurred amid concerns about potential unauthorized drone activity in the vicinity of the Texas airport. As a precaution, authorities temporarily restricted airspace operations, affecting commercial and general aviation flights during the incident. Normal flight operations resumed after the area was deemed secure.

LOCUST, developed by AeroVironment Inc., is a directed-energy weapon system designed to detect, track and disable unmanned aerial systems. The mobile platform uses high-energy laser technology to neutralize drones by targeting critical components, offering a rapid-response alternative to traditional counter-drone measures.

While the U.S. Army has previously tested and demonstrated directed-energy systems in controlled environments, the reported use near an active civilian airport underscores growing concerns over drone incursions around critical infrastructure. Unauthorized drones have increasingly posed risks to airports worldwide, prompting regulators and defense agencies to explore advanced mitigation technologies.

The sources said the Army positioned the LOCUST system in coordination with federal authorities. It remains unclear whether any drones were actively engaged during the operation or whether the deployment was precautionary in nature. The Federal Aviation Administration has not publicly detailed the specific cause of the airspace restriction but confirmed that temporary flight limitations were implemented for safety reasons.

El Paso International Airport serves as a key commercial hub in West Texas, handling both civilian and military-related air traffic due to its proximity to Fort Bliss, a major U.S. Army installation. The region’s strategic importance may have influenced the rapid response.

AeroVironment has promoted LOCUST as part of its broader portfolio of counter-unmanned aircraft systems designed to protect military bases, airports and other sensitive sites. The system’s mobility allows it to be deployed quickly in response to emerging threats.

The incident highlights the evolving security challenges facing airports as drone usage expands. Authorities continue to balance the need for airspace safety with the integration of advanced defense technologies in and around civilian aviation environments.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com