Between the night of August 25 and the early morning of August 26, an operation led by the **Joint Task Force Southern Border (JTF-SB)**, under **US Northern Command**, took place in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas. During this operation, agents successfully engaged and shot down three drones. The technology deployed is derived from the Army's **High-Energy Multipurpose Laser (AMP-HEL)** system, a military program dedicated to integrating high-energy lasers into new defense capabilities. ### The Locust Laser Weapon System in Action This initiative reportedly began in September 2025, when defense technology specialist **AeroVironment** delivered the first two functional prototypes of these laser-based weapons to the **US Armed Forces**. Further improved systems were delivered in December of the same year. The specific platform used is identified as the **Locust Laser Weapon System**, designed for mounting on military vehicles. Operating at 20 kilowatts, the **Locust** system utilizes an intensely concentrated beam of light capable of detecting, tracking, illuminating, damaging, or destroying targets from a distance. ### How High-Energy Lasers Operate **Locust** and similar high-energy laser (HEL) systems typically employ sensors, cameras, or radars to pinpoint an object. Once identified, the system precisely focuses the light beam onto the target, even while in motion. An additional electrical charge then amplifies the beam's power, converting it into heat that damages or disables the drone. The extent of the damage varies based on factors such as distance, exposure time, and the target's characteristics. Recent versions of **Locust**, including those delivered last December, integrate radar and command-and-control systems. This allows for seamless integration into more complex mobile defense platforms, moving beyond standalone use. ### Potential Links to Criminal Activity The exact location of the operation and the origin or operators of the neutralized drones remain undisclosed. However, **Major General Curtis Taylor**, commander of **JTF-SB**, suggested a potential link to criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking and operations from Mexican territory. > "Cartel networks are increasingly employing unmanned aircraft systems to facilitate illicit human smuggling and actively spy on our personnel and law enforcement partners. By integrating layered countermeasures alongside advanced directed-energy capabilities like this laser system, we have made it clear that we will not tolerate hostile surveillance. We also greatly appreciate the support of our Mexican Army partners as we work together to combat this threat to the border region," stated Major General Taylor in a press release. While the official statement did not specify the exact **AMP-HEL** models used, the action aligns with broader campaigns against illegal immigration and drug cartels. Former President **Donald Trump** has advocated for drastic measures along the US-Mexico border, with his administration deploying a range of technologies, including HEL systems, as part of this effort. This deployment underscores the evolving landscape of border security and the increasing reliance on advanced military technologies to counter emerging threats from non-state actors.