The Army is set to deploy a new laser system designed to take down drones, and one company has already demonstrated its feasibility in the field.
AeroVironment secured a substantial Army contract worth $464.8 million in September for its LOCUST X3 laser. According to a release from the company on September 8, the LOCUST laser system can engage targets at a cost of under $10 per shot. Army representatives mentioned at the annual Association of the U.S. Army meeting in Washington that the first LOCUST X3 could be operational against drones by early 2028, as reported by Military Times.
“We’re really moving from what used to be science fiction into science reality,” stated John Garrity, AeroVironment’s VP of directed energy systems, during an interview.
General Christopher LaNeve, the Army’s vice chief of staff, highlighted this program as a groundbreaking initiative that would allow military units to effectively counter unmanned systems right from the start. He emphasized this was the Army’s first contract for producing a high-energy laser weapon.
This laser relies on electricity and features a supply mechanism that regenerates using the system’s power source.
Brent Ingraham, the Army’s assistant secretary for acquisition, logistics, and technology, expressed pride in the Army’s swift advancement from science and technology to practical application with this new capability.
Garrity mentioned the financial disparity in traditional drone defense, pointing out that missiles costing between $500,000 to $1 million are often used against drones that are only a fraction of that price. While these missiles may successfully destroy the drones, the Army still faces significant losses. He argued that laser technology presents a more economically viable alternative.
Each laser shot’s cost is akin to that of a cup of coffee, as Garrity noted, with the under-$10 figure essentially reflecting the electricity expenses. He also pointed out that while the initial costs of lasers align with other counter-drone weapons, these laser systems come out ahead after just one successful takedown.
A hybrid truck designed by Harbinger, a manufacturer from California specializing in electric and hybrid trucks, demonstrated the LOCUST X3 at a recent meeting, as reported by Defence Blog. The LOCUST X3 operates as a 30-kilowatt laser.
Harbinger’s battery system is reported to hold around 105 kilowatt-hours of energy, theoretically allowing it to sustain a continuous 30-kW load for about 3.5 hours. However, as Harris explained, laser systems generally function in short bursts rather than continuously, so actual operating duration varies based on power needs and usage.
Harbinger is collaborating with American Rheinmetall on developing hybrid-powered unmanned ground vehicles designed for supply transport for the Army.
Leonardo DRS, known for its onboard power systems for military vehicles, stated that their technology has consistently met the power demands necessary for directed-energy missions across various vehicle types. Utilizing existing power from vehicles not only cuts down on the need for separate generators but also alleviates the associated maintenance burdens.
AeroVironment is expected to deliver the first LOCUST X3 by the end of fiscal year 2027, with plans for its installation on the Army’s Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, according to Military Times.
Kirk Williams, from the Army’s Directed Energy Project Office, indicated a desire to retain the initial unit for testing and training, although there is a tendency for all capable counter-drone systems to find deployment in the field. The modular design of the laser facilitates maintenance by soldiers.
The Pentagon identified three laser systems for a counter-drone pilot program at U.S. bases, including AeroVironment’s technology, as highlighted by Military Times. This initiative aims to gather data on the performance, costs, and maintenance needs of these systems.
Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross noted that the pilot program’s goal is to evaluate these systems in real-world settings to determine the best integration and sustainability for homeland defense.
Col. Charles Kean, a deputy commanding officer for support, emphasized that the more capabilities soldiers can have at their disposal, the better it will be for their operational effectiveness.
Garrity added that not only the Army but also other allies and military branches are expressing a pressing need for this technology.
AeroVironment is actively pursuing long-manufacture components, engaging secondary suppliers, and expanding its production workforce, with over 100 personnel in Albuquerque dedicated to laser development.
“Directed energy is real. It’s dependable. It’s ready to enter the field promptly,” Garrity concluded. The contract from AeroVironment encompasses over 26 laser weapons, as conveyed to Military Times.
