Laser Weapons and El Paso Airport Chaos

A recent incident near El Paso airport in Texas has raised significant questions about the use of laser weapons to stop drones.

The Incident

• The U. S. military used a laser weapon, called Locust, to stop drones.
• The airport was closed for many hours, causing confusion and frustration among travelers.

The Weapon and Its Impact

• Locust was developed by AeroVironment and is used by the U. S. Army.
• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) expressed concerns that the laser could endanger planes, leading to a temporary halt in all flights.

Lack of Communication

• Local leaders were not informed about the closure, worsening the chaos.
• The mayor of El Paso described the situation as "complete chaos."
• A local representative called it a major government mistake.

The Drone Problem

• Drones are a growing issue near the border, with over 1,000 sightings per month.
• The government is trying to stop these drones, but using lasers near airports poses risks.

Expert Warnings

• Lasers can be dangerous, potentially hitting other planes.
• Jammers, another countermeasure, can interfere with plane navigation systems.

Company Response

• AeroVironment has supplied more of these weapons to the military, stating they are useful.
• However, the recent incident highlights the potential for significant disruptions.