"This memorandum consolidates approximately ten separate outdated memoranda that were inadequate to address the current, complex unmanned aircraft system (UAS) threat environment. The new guidance affects a culture shift by empowering commanders to unambiguously apply their authority to mitigate threat UAS. Our message is clear, Department of War (DoW) airspace is off limits, and our commanders on the ground have the discretion to defend our airspace against all manner of UAS threats..."
"According to the Wall Street Journal, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth last month had approved lending the 20-kilowatt directed-energy LOCUST [laser] weapon to CBP for use on the Fort Bliss installation, whose fence line is on the Mexican border. The CBP test was not coordinated with the FAA and the resultant uproar, which subsequently involved the White House and Congress, marks only the beginning of what I believe will be a series of similar episodes related to homeland protection against suspect UAS drone systems."
A new memorandum consolidates approximately ten outdated memoranda and provides unified guidance to address the complex unmanned aircraft system (UAS) threat environment. Commanders are empowered to unambiguously apply their authority to mitigate threat UAS and to defend Department of War airspace. The guidance authorizes expansion of defensive perimeters beyond an installation's physical fence line to protect covered facilities, fixed assets, and mobile assets. A recent CBP test at Fort Bliss used a 20‑kilowatt directed-energy LOCUST laser to shoot down suspected drug-trafficking UAS that were later identified as metallic party balloons. The CBP action lacked FAA coordination, prompted temporary airspace closures, and drew White House and Congressional attention.
Read at The Cipher Brief
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