Weather

86°F2:13 PM

Community

1 read

Fort Bliss Selected for Advanced Anti-Drone Technology Pilot Program

KVIA•Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 10:11 PM•Armando Ramirez

People gathering representing community events and culture

Want the full story?

Read the complete article at KVIA

AI Summary

Fort Bliss has been chosen as one of five military installations to participate in a directed-energy counter-drone pilot program under the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act. This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of military and homeland defense against unlawful drone activities using advanced technologies such as high-energy lasers and microwave systems. The program is crucial for protecting military infrastructure and ensuring safety in national airspace, as demonstrated by recent tests at White Sands Missile Range. Over the next 180 days, deployment plans will be finalized, with operations expected to commence later this year, following previous airspace closures around El Paso due to anti-drone testing.

Key Details: • Fort Bliss is one of five selected installations for the pilot program. • The program will utilize high-energy lasers and microwave systems for counter-drone operations. • Deployment plans will be finalized in the next 180 days, with operations starting later this year. • Previous testing led to temporary airspace closures around El Paso International Airport.

military fort-bliss homeland-security national-defense drone-technology

People & Organizations

Fort BlissEl Paso International AirportFAADepartment of WarSanta TeresaWhite Sands Missile RangeArmy Brig. Gen. Matt RossArmy Col. Scott McLellanJoint Interagency Task Force 401

Related Articles

Exciting Rodeo El Paso Set for June 19-21 at County Coliseum

Rodeo El Paso is making its comeback at the El Paso County Coliseum from June 19 to 21, featuring over 250 athletes competing in various events under the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and Women's Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA). The event will showcase thrilling activities such as bull riding, barrel racing, and team roping, aimed at celebrating the region's western heritage and uniting fans from the Borderland. Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on the first two days and a matinee at 2 p.m. on the final day. Tickets are priced between $15 and $90 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or at the Coliseum box office.

Mass Seal Pup Deaths Linked to Bird Flu Outbreak in Sub-Antarctic Islands

A severe outbreak of H5 bird flu has led to the death of approximately 13,000 seal pups on Heard and McDonald Islands, located near Antarctica. Drone surveys conducted by the Australian Antarctic Program revealed a staggering mortality rate of 76% among the 17,000 seal pups born there, with some areas reporting up to 97% mortality. The virus, first detected in this Australian territory, is believed to have originated from wildlife in the Crozet Islands, approximately 1,800 kilometers away, around August 2025. The impact on the adult seal population remains unknown, and while the Australian mainland and New Zealand have not reported cases, the situation highlights the ongoing spread of the virus among wildlife.

Mayfield Coach Jeneca Montoya Recognized as New Mexico's Most Positive Female Coach

Jeneca Montoya, the head coach of the Mayfield girls basketball team, has been awarded the title of New Mexico’s Most Positive Female Coach for the 2025-2026 school year by the Positive Athlete Organization. This recognition highlights her exceptional character and leadership, particularly during a difficult personal battle with stage IV metastatic breast cancer, which began in July 2025. Despite undergoing extensive treatment, including chemotherapy and radiation, Montoya has remained a source of inspiration for her athletes and community. Her father, George Maya, is also a well-known figure in the local basketball scene, adding to her legacy. This honor not only celebrates her achievements but also emphasizes the importance of resilience and positivity in sports.

El Paso Matters•Jun 19

El Paso Leaders Engage with Meta on Controversial Data Center Project

A roundtable discussion held at City Hall brought together El Paso city officials, Meta representatives, and community critics to address concerns surrounding the proposed Northeast data center. Mayor Renard Johnson emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue to rebuild trust and address issues related to water usage, noise pollution, and economic development. Participants raised questions about health impacts and the adequacy of responses from Meta, with calls for further community engagement. Meta plans to implement water restoration projects and aims to replenish more water than it consumes, while the water utility reported that the center's demand would only slightly increase overall water usage in the city.