AeroVironment's LOCUST laser counter-drone system was deployed near El Paso International Airport on Wednesday, triggering a seven-hour airspace shutdown, Reuters reported. The 20-kilowatt direct-energy weapon, stationed at Fort Bliss adjacent to the airport, prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to halt flights after raising concerns about potential risks to commercial traffic.

This deployment marks a rare known use of the cutting-edge system, which is designed to neutralize drones at a fraction of the cost of traditional interceptor missiles. The U.S. has been stepping up efforts to counter drone threats around airports and major events, including the upcoming FIFA World Cup and America250 celebrations. Virginia-based AeroVironment delivered its first two LOCUST systems to the Army in September 2024 under a high-energy laser prototyping program.

The incident underscores growing tensions between military counter-drone operations and civilian air traffic safety. As airports become increasingly vulnerable to drone incursions, the Army's deployment of LOCUST near a major commercial hub demonstrates both the urgency of the threat and the challenges of balancing security with operational continuity. The seven-hour closure likely caused significant disruption to passenger travel and cargo operations at one of Texas's busiest airports.