F.A.A. Says Military Can Use Anti-Drone Lasers in U.S. Airspace

New York Times
by Karoun Demirjian
April 10, 2026
8 views
2 min read

Quick Insights

The Bottom Line

The F.A.A. has approved the military's use of anti-drone lasers within U.S. airspace.

How This Affects You

This decision allows the military to deploy anti-drone laser technology domestically, potentially affecting airspace regulations and public safety near military operations.

AI Summary

The Federal Aviation Administration (F.A.A.) has approved the military's use of anti-drone lasers within U.S. airspace. This decision follows an interagency dispute over high-energy laser use near airports, which previously caused two temporary airspace closures in Texas this year. The F.A.A.'s ruling resolves a conflict that had impacted air traffic and military operations. This allows the military to deploy anti-drone laser technology domestically, addressing potential drone threats.

What's Being Done

The F.A.A. approved the military's use of anti-drone lasers in U.S. airspace.

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