Army Awards $465 Million for High-Powered Laser Weapons from AeroVironment

The U.S. Army has awarded a significant contract worth nearly half a billion dollars to AeroVironment for the production of its Enduring-High Energy Laser (E-HEL) system, marking a pivotal moment in the integration of directed energy weapons into military arsenals. The deal, valued at $464.8 million, is set to deliver dozens of LOCUST X3 laser weapon systems over several years.

John Garrity, vice president of AeroVironment's Directed Energy Systems division, highlighted that this contract represents a substantial step forward in the militarization of directed energy technologies. The LOCUST system boasts a 30-kilowatt laser capable of neutralizing large to medium-sized drones at an operational cost of less than $5 per shot, making it highly economical compared to traditional missile-based countermeasures.

The military's push for such systems is driven by the escalating threat posed by cheap and numerous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), particularly in the context of ongoing conflicts. The current Iran war has underscored the vulnerability of expensive interceptor missiles against low-cost UAVs, prompting a need for more cost-effective solutions like AeroVironment’s LOCUST.

Mary Clum, president of AeroVironment's Space, Cyber and Directed Energy Program, emphasized the historical significance of this contract, noting that it marks the first production-level agreement for directed energy weapons in U.S. military history. She stated that the transition to integrating these systems into regular force structures is a critical step toward enhancing overall defense capabilities.

The LOCUST system is versatile, designed for deployment on various Army platforms including the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle and Infantry Squad Vehicle. Additionally, it can be mounted on palletized versions for flexible use across different terrains and missions. AeroVironment officials also highlighted the system's ability to integrate seamlessly with other military technologies, such as Anduril’s Lattice command and control system.

Under Secretary of the Army Mike Obadal praised the development, noting that a layered defense approach is essential in countering drone threats effectively. This strategy involves deploying an interconnected network of sensors and effectors capable of detecting and neutralizing UAVs at various ranges and altitudes.

However, recent incidents near the U.S.-Mexico border have raised concerns about operational readiness and inter-agency coordination when employing these advanced technologies. In February, a mistaken engagement by Customs and Border Protection using a Pentagon-leased LOCUST system led to airspace closures in El Paso, Texas. A similar event occurred weeks later when military forces inadvertently targeted a CBP drone near Fort Hancock.

These incidents have drawn criticism from lawmakers who are concerned about the lack of coordination between federal agencies involved in deploying counter-drone measures. The Pentagon, FAA, and other agencies subsequently conducted a fast-tracked test exercise at White Sands Missile Range to address these issues and improve operational protocols.

The deployment of AeroVironment’s LOCUST system underscores the evolving nature of modern warfare, where cost-effective, high-tech solutions are increasingly critical for maintaining military superiority against asymmetric threats.