DOD Memo Greenlights DHS Use of Military 'Heat Ray' at US-Mexico Border

What's Happening

• •The DOD has issued a memo allowing DHS to use the Active Denial System for seven months.
• •This system is designed to deter crowds by emitting a heat wave sensation.
• •The deployment is set to begin in September 2026.

Why It Matters

This decision by the DOD to authorize the use of military technology at the border has significant implications for active-duty service members and veterans. It highlights the evolving role of military resources in domestic security and raises questions about the boundaries of military engagement in civilian matters.

What Changes Now

• •DHS will begin using the Active Denial System for crowd control at the border starting September 2026. This will require coordination with military personnel to ensure proper operation and safety protocols are followed.
• •Service members deployed to support this operation will need to undergo training on the ADS. This training will be crucial to ensure they understand the system's capabilities and limitations.
• •The deployment of the ADS may lead to changes in how border security is managed. This could influence future policies regarding the use of military technology in civilian contexts.

What to Watch

• •Monitor the feedback from DHS regarding the effectiveness of the ADS. This feedback will be critical in determining whether the technology will be used in future operations.
• •Watch for potential legislative responses to the deployment of military technology in civilian areas. Lawmakers may introduce bills addressing the ethical implications of such technologies.
• •Keep an eye on public opinion and advocacy group reactions to the use of the ADS. Their responses could shape future policy decisions and operational guidelines.

Get the Daily Briefing

Military and veteran news that actually affects you, in your inbox each morning.

More Context

• •Overview of the Active Denial System: The Active Denial System (ADS) is a non-lethal crowd control technology developed by the military. It uses millimeter-wave technology to create a sensation of intense heat on the skin, discouraging individuals from approaching a designated area. This system has been tested in various military scenarios but has not been widely deployed in civilian contexts until now.
• •Implications for Border Security: The authorization for DHS to use the ADS marks a significant shift in how the U.S. approaches border security. By leveraging military technology, DHS aims to enhance its ability to manage large crowds and deter potential threats without resorting to lethal force. This move may set a precedent for future collaborations between military and civilian agencies in addressing domestic security issues.
• •Operational Details and Timeline: The memo specifies that the ADS will be on loan for seven months, beginning in September 2026. During this period, DHS will evaluate the system's effectiveness in real-world scenarios, which could influence future policy decisions regarding its use. Service members involved in the operation must be trained on the system's capabilities and limitations to ensure safe and effective deployment.
• •Concerns and Controversies: The use of the Active Denial System raises ethical and operational concerns among human rights advocates and some lawmakers. Critics argue that deploying military technology in civilian contexts could lead to excessive force and potential violations of rights. Ongoing discussions will likely focus on the balance between national security and individual liberties as this technology is implemented.