The US Army has deployed a cutting-edge, high-energy laser system to successfully take down three drones near the US-Mexico border, reportedly posing a threat to military personnel and Customs and Border Patrol partners.
The operation, which occurred between the night of August 25 and early morning of August 26 in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas, was spearheaded by the Joint Task Force Southern Border (JTF-SB) under US Northern Command. Officials confirmed the use of technology derived from the Army’s Advanced Multipurpose High-Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) system, a program focused on developing advanced laser defense capabilities.
This initiative traces back to September 2025, when defense tech company AeroVironment delivered the initial prototypes of these laser weapons to the US Armed Forces. The program expanded with two more advanced systems delivered in December of the same year. Known as the Locust Laser Weapon System, these platforms are designed to be vehicle-mounted, matching the Army's integration approach.
Operating at 20 kilowatts, the Locust system uses a highly concentrated light beam to detect, track, damage, or destroy targets from a distance. It employs sensors, cameras, or radar to pinpoint objects, then precisely focuses the beam, increasing its power and heat to disable the drone. The effectiveness depends on factors like distance, exposure time, and the drone's specs.
Recent Locust versions, like those delivered last December, come equipped with integrated radar and command-and-control systems, allowing for smoother integration into mobile defense platforms rather than standalone use.
While the exact location and origin of the drones remain undisclosed, JTF-SB Commander Curtis Taylor suggested a link to criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking and cross-border operations. He stated, “Cartel networks are increasingly employing unmanned aircraft systems to facilitate illicit human smuggling and actively spy on our personnel and law enforcement partners. By integrating layered countermeasures alongside advanced directed-energy capabilities like this laser system, we have made it clear that we will not tolerate hostile surveillance. We also greatly appreciate the support of our Mexican Army partners as we work together to combat this threat to the border region.”
Although official statements haven't specified the exact AMP-HEL models used, international media has connected the action to broader efforts against illegal immigration and drug cartels. President Trump's administration has committed significant resources and diverse technologies, including HEL systems, to address these border security challenges.
