This week, the US Army deployed a 20-kilowatt laser to down three drones near the US-Mexico border. The drones, deemed a threat to military personnel and customs agents, were dispatched by the Joint Task Force Southern Border. The operation, using the Locust Laser Weapon System, highlights the growing use of lasers in military defense.

Delivered in September 2025 by AeroVironment, the Locust system is designed to mount on military vehicles, combining detection, tracking, and firepower into a single, precise package. It works by focusing a powerful beam to damage or destroy moving targets, even under dynamic conditions.

While this technology promises a non-lethal alternative to traditional weapons, concerns remain about its effectiveness and potential misuse. The Army’s move signals a significant shift towards more advanced, energy-based defense systems.

The operation, while successful, raises questions about the long-term implications of laser technology in military and border control operations. As the technology evolves, so too will the balance of power and the ethical considerations surrounding its use.