US laser weapon system cuts cartel drone incursions at border by 75%

US military reports a 75% drop in drone activity at the US-Mexico border after deploying a laser weapon system, which has stopped 300 cartel-linked drones since early 2026. The claim is based on a single report, with details on the system's capabilities and operational scope unverified. This marks a notable shift in border security tactics, potentially signaling broader use of directed-energy weapons in counter-drone operations.