The US Department of Transportation, Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Homeland Security have announced a new temporary flight restriction (TFR) for drones along the southern US border.
Citing national security, the agencies said that the TFR – effective from 16 October – will bar any unauthorised drone activity up to 400 feet above ground level and extend one nautical mile north of the US-Mexico border.
The use of drones by drug cartels and those organising irregular border crossings has increased. The agencies said the TFR will “reduce risks to ongoing border security operations, and protect federal personnel, facilities and the homeland” as well as helping to enhance enforcement against those who violate the restrictions.
DoD is equipped with directed energy systems capable of shooting down rogue drones.
The Federal Aviation Administration will publish a NOTAM which will include links to the Domestic Notice and the FAA’s UAS Data Delivery System.
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Image: Image: Joint Task Force – Southern Border personnel use the Army Multipurpose High Energy Laser system on 25 August 2026. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Daniel Huerta)