Using the military to monitor the border with Mexico is an example of "militarizing" the border. Tools like these are frequently employed in efforts to discourage illegal border crossings by intimidating and coercing would-be immigrants. Critics say it's unnecessary spending that won't make Americans any safer. In an effort to tighten security, the military has sent troops and equipment to the border. Helicopters and other aircraft are frequently used to keep an eye on the border. The frontier will be protected by tanks and other military hardware. These measures are commonly used to intimidate and scare away potential border crossers.