The United States is consolidating its military power with new tests and prototypes, particularly under the leadership of President Donald Trump since returning to office in January 2025. A notable development was the testing of the 20-kilowatt LOCUST laser system developed by AeroVironment, which led to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) closing the airspace around El Paso, Texas, for nearly eight hours on February 10-11. The closure was initially planned to last 10 days due to operational security concerns but was lifted after local aviation representatives demanded clarification on safety risks.

The airspace closure reflects the ongoing evolution of military technology and its implications for civilian operations. While the testing of such advanced weapons is viewed as essential for national defense, it raises questions about the impact of military activities on local communities and air traffic. The swift reaction from aviation leaders highlights the necessity to balance defense advancements with public safety and operational transparency.

As the Pentagon continues to experiment with high-tech weaponry, the incident serves as a case study for future interactions between military objectives and civilian airline operations. With the LOCUST system designed to combat drone threats, its successful deployment underscores the military's commitment to developing technologies that enhance national security, albeit potentially complicating the regulatory landscape for aviation safety.