A senior defense official disclosed that U.S. forces are employing laser systems to neutralize aircraft linked to criminal organizations along the southern frontier. Approximately 100 suspected cartel drones were shot down during August, the first time the Pentagon has revealed the frequency of these interceptions. Each operation was precoordinated with Mexican military and border authorities to ensure safety and deconfliction.

The takedowns are part of a layered counter-UAS defense strategy designed to combine personnel, updated authorities, and technology instead of relying on a single system. Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson stated the military is utilizing these defensive tools to protect personnel and border security operations from cartel-linked drone threats.