By Staff Writer, John Kling
August 29, 2026, M.A.G.A. Daily News
M.A.G.A. DAILY NEWS
The U.S. military reportedly used a high-energy laser to stop three drones near the southern border. Officials said the drones were linked to Mexican cartel activity and were being used for surveillance and other illegal activity. The operation involved Joint Task Force–Southern Border and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
The Army’s new laser system gives troops another way to respond to drone activity. Officials say cartel networks are using drones more often near the border, making new technology an important part of border security.
A New Era of Border Security Technology
The U.S. military has taken a major step in counter-drone technology along the southern border. This week, Joint Task Force–Southern Border used the Army Multipurpose High Energy Laser, known as AMP-HEL, to defeat three unmanned aircraft. The operation took place during the late-night hours of August 25 and 26, according to the military.
Military Says Drones Were Cartel-Linked
Military officials said the drones were connected to cartel activity. Maj. Gen. Curtis Taylor, commander of Joint Task Force–Southern Border, said cartel networks are increasingly using drones to support illicit human-smuggling operations and monitor U.S. personnel and law enforcement partners.
Officials have not publicly identified a specific cartel connected to the three drones. They also have not released the exact location where the drones were engaged. The military said the aircraft were considered hostile because of their connection to activities that posed a physical threat to U.S. military personnel and Customs and Border Protection partners.
How the Military Laser Works
The AMP-HEL system uses directed-energy technology to counter unmanned aircraft. Unlike traditional systems that rely on ammunition or missiles, a high-energy laser uses concentrated energy to disable its target.
That gives military and border personnel another tool when dealing with small drones. The technology is part of a broader effort to build layered defenses against unmanned aircraft.
Why This Matters at the Border
Drones have become an increasing concern for border officials and military personnel. They can provide surveillance from the air and can be used by criminal networks to support smuggling operations.
The successful use of AMP-HEL marks an important test of advanced military technology in a real border mission. About 8,000 service members are currently serving under Joint Task Force–Southern Border, which operates under U.S. Northern Command in support of Customs and Border Protection.
The operation shows that border security is becoming increasingly high-tech. As drone use continues to grow, the military is developing new ways to detect and counter these aircraft before they can interfere with U.S. personnel or border operations. For other information on the U.S. Military action click here.
Takeaway:
The border is getting a serious technology upgrade.
⚖️ Sources
- U.S. Northern Command
- Joint Task Force–Southern Border
- U.S. Army
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- U.S. Department of Defense
- FOX 5 San Diego
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This information is based on current reports and is for informational purposes only. Details may change as officials provide more information. The photo and text caption are AI generated. We represent M.A.G.A. — Morals ● Action ● God ● America—M.A.G.A., an online daily faith based news editorial.
