Threat To Hegseth, Rubio? US Pushes Anti-Drone Laser System Near Residences Of Top US Officials

Last Updated:March 31, 2026, 22:38 IST

The drone sightings have prompted concerns about possible surveillance of two high-ranking national security officials at a time when the United States is at war with Iran.

The Pentagon is weighing the deployment of a powerful anti-drone laser system in Washington DC, following reports of unusual drone activity near a key military installation, the New York Times reported, citing officials familiar with the matter.

As per the report, while the plans are still in flux, the Army is weighing using the technology is considering placing the system at Fort Lesley J. McNair, where several senior national security leaders, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and State Secretary Marco Rubio reside.

While authorities say there is no immediate threat, security measures around the base have already been increased. Officials have not confirmed whether the laser system will ultimately be deployed, noting that plans remain under review.

The Army has been debating deploying the lasers there after reports of unusual drone activity in the airspace around Fort McNair. The drone sightings have prompted concerns about possible surveillance of two high-ranking national security officials at a time when the United States is at war with Iran.

The proposal has sparked debate between the Pentagon and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which has raised concerns about the safety of using such technology in heavily trafficked airspace. The area around Fort McNair is close to one of the nation’s busiest airports, adding complexity to any potential deployment.

The FAA in the past has raised safety concerns about its use along the border with Mexico, and the Pentagon, which has been more eager to deploy it to fight drone incursions by Mexican drug cartels.

Recent aviation incidents have further heightened sensitivity around airspace safety, putting additional pressure on regulators to proceed cautiously. The FAA is already under intense scrutiny after a midair collision between an Army helicopter and a regional passenger jet killed 67 people over the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan National Airport last year.

National Airport, located across the Potomac in Northern Virginia, is about two miles from Fort McNair.

Consequently, the FAA is considering issuing a NOTAM that would warn pilots to use caution when flying through the El Paso area if they did not have locational-broadcasting technology switched on in their cockpits, the report added.

Officials from both agencies say they are working toward an agreement that balances national security needs with aviation safety.

News world Threat To Hegseth, Rubio? US Pushes Anti-Drone Laser System Near Residences Of Top US Officials

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