US Army partners with Huntington Ingalls to create advanced anti-drone laser weapon
- Huntington Ingalls Industries has been awarded a contract by the US Army to create a new laser weapon system to target drones.
- The prototype will be capable of neutralizing unmanned aerial vehicles weighing significant amounts and flying at substantial speeds and heights.
- This initiative represents a key step in enhancing the Army's counter-drone capabilities as they aim for rapid development and deployment.
In the United States, the US Army has engaged Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) to develop and test a new high-energy laser (HEL) weapon system aimed at neutralizing airborne unmanned vehicles. This contract was awarded by the Army's Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) and is part of the Army's ongoing efforts to enhance its counter-drone capabilities. The prototype is designed to take down various unmanned aircraft, with specifications to handle drones weighing up to 1,320 pounds, flying at speeds up to 250 knots, and altitudes as high as 18,000 feet. The project seeks not only to advance current technologies but also to develop integrated systems that are modular, easily repairable, and secure against cybersecurity threats. The Army plans for sensor testing by the first quarter of FY2025, with subsequent phases including a lab demonstration and field testing. The contract reflects the Army’s intent to advance the landscape of counter unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Additionally, this marks a significant push within the military to expand its laser weapon capabilities following prior advancements such as the BlueHalo's LOCUST system, which has already been operational since 2022. The LOCUST system is designed to deliver physical destruction to drones using a 20-kilowatt laser beam, showcasing the Army's commitment to enhancing its technological prowess in combat scenarios. HII's latest weapon project, therefore, adds another dimension to the Army’s arsenal in the ongoing battle against drones and unmanned systems, emphasizing the urgency of developing cost-effective yet powerful countermeasures. The overall goal includes the completion of prototype testing and the selection of a prime contractor for broad production by early FY2026.