The U.S. military said on Sept. 4 it has shot down more than 300 drones operated by drug-trafficking groups along the U.S.-Mexico border this year. U.S. Northern Command said forces used kinetic and non-kinetic systems to support U.S. Customs and Border Protection, with more than 100 drones downed in August. The Army began using a Multi‑Mission High‑Energy Laser system in border operations on Aug. 24 and had used it to destroy 11 cartel drones as of Sept. 4.

2026-09-05

The U.S. military said on Sept. 4 it has shot down more than 300 drones operated by drug-trafficking groups along the U.S.-Mexico border this year. U.S. Northern Command said forces used kinetic and non-kinetic systems to support U.S. Customs and Border Protection, with more than 100 drones downed in August. The Army began using a Multi‑Mission High‑Energy Laser system in border operations on Aug. 24 and had used it to destroy 11 cartel drones as of Sept. 4.