On August 28, 2026, Army personnel at Joint Task Force Southern Border used the Multipurpose High Energy Laser system to disable three hostile unmanned aircraft systems linked to drug cartels. Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Taylor emphasized the operation demonstrated the force’s technological readiness and commitment to countering adversarial surveillance. A War Department official noted directed-energy weapons, like the laser, are critical for future warfare, enabling cost-effective defense against drone swarms and incoming missiles. The department plans to procure hundreds of thousands of drones and counter-UAS technology, including directed-energy systems, next year. The Joint Laser Weapon System program, awarded $86 million in July, aims to transition laser capabilities from prototypes to field-ready platforms. Officials highlighted the technology’s ability to engage threats across domains while reducing costs compared to kinetic weapons.
© U.S. Government.
Summary adapted from https://war.gov
Made by AI. If you spot anything of concern write us at contact@cybach.com. We’ll promptly correct irregularities.