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Pentagon eyes anti-drone laser near home of Hegseth and Rubio after drone sightings: NYT
Officials are reviewing the system after drone sightings raised surveillance fears and renewed concerns about aircraft safety in crowded Washington airspace.
- The Pentagon is weighing deployment of the LOCUST anti-drone laser system at Fort McNair in Washington to address suspicious drone activity near residences of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
- This consideration follows recent drone sightings near the base and reflects an escalating dispute between the Pentagon and the Federal Aviation Administration over safety risks associated with laser use in crowded airspaces.
- Federal Aviation Administration regulators remain concerned about potential injury to civilians or aircraft damage, while the Defense Department argues lasers offer cost-effective alternatives to Patriots. "Our officials look forward to working with the Pentagon," FAA spokeswoman Hannah Walden said.
- During a national security meeting led by Rubio earlier this month, Defense officials pushed regulators to approve wider system use despite ongoing concerns about safety gaps.
- Amid the war with Iran, President Donald Trump praised the technology, stating "It's coming out pretty soon" as a cheaper alternative to missile interceptors while the United States faces heightened drone threats.
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US considers using anti-drone lasers to shield Pete Hegseth, Marco Rubio's homes
Earlier this month, unidentified drones were detected over Fort McNair in Washington DC, prompting the White House to consider relocating Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources15
Leaning Left2Leaning Right7Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution64% Right
Bias Distribution
- 64% of the sources lean Right
64% Right
L 18%
C 18%
R 64%
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