NextFin news, The US Army received its first two prototype mobile laser weapon systems (LWS) for counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) operations on Monday, September 8, 2025. The systems were delivered by AeroVironment, Inc. and are part of the Army's Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) program aimed at enhancing battlefield defense against drone threats.
The laser systems, known as LOCUST, each feature a 20-kilowatt-class laser mounted on Infantry Squad Vehicles (ISV) produced by General Motors Defense. This integration creates a lightweight, maneuverable, and combat-ready platform designed to protect mobile forces from aerial threats, particularly small drones.
Prior to delivery, the prototypes underwent rigorous government acceptance testing at the Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona. These tests evaluated performance metrics including lethality, mobility, energy management, safety protocols, and integration with targeting systems. Following successful trials, soldiers received training on the new equipment at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where their feedback contributed to further system refinements.
Mary Clum, Senior Vice President of AeroVironment’s Space & Directed Energy Group, stated, "This milestone marks a major step forward in the Army’s pursuit of fieldable directed energy capabilities. Through the AMP-HEL program, AV is delivering our extensively validated LOCUST laser system—a technically sophisticated solution that has demonstrated reliability and operational readiness for the C-UAS fight."
John Garrity, Vice President of Directed Energy Systems at AeroVironment, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting the Army’s modernization efforts and modularity priorities, noting plans to expand manufacturing to meet operational demand.
The LOCUST system employs advanced optical and targeting technologies, including multi-target infrared search-and-track modes and high-speed beam steering, enabling rapid detection and neutralization of moving aerial targets in real time. The system’s operator interface is designed for ease of use, modeled after gaming controllers to reduce training time and improve response under pressure.
Compared to traditional counter-drone weapons such as anti-aircraft guns and missiles, which incur high ammunition costs, the laser weapon system offers a cost-effective solution with an estimated energy cost of only a few cents per shot. This advantage supports sustained operations with reduced logistical burdens.
The AMP-HEL program is managed by the US Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) and represents a broader effort to develop scalable directed energy weapons for expeditionary forces. The next phase includes delivery of additional systems mounted on Joint Light Tactical Vehicles, equipped with integrated radar and command-and-control components.
The delivery and training on Monday mark a significant advancement in the US Army’s capability to counter emerging drone threats with innovative directed energy technology, enhancing force protection and operational flexibility on the modern battlefield.
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