US Army Awards AeroVironment $464.8 Million Laser Weapon Contract

The United States Army awarded AeroVironment a $464.8 million contract for the Enduring-High Energy Laser (E-HEL) program of record. This represents the first production contract for a high-energy laser weapon in the service's history. Under an Other Transaction Authority agreement, AeroVironment will deliver dozens of LOCUST X3 laser counter-drone systems over the next several years, with initial capabilities expected within one year.

The LOCUST X3 employs a 30kw laser designed to defeat Group 1, 2, and 3 drones, including unmanned systems weighing up to 1,320 pounds. Army officials noted that the system offers a lower-cost alternative to kinetic weapons such as missiles. The technology is platform agnostic; the Army plans to initially mount the systems on Infantry Squad Vehicles and Joint Light Tactical Vehicles, with future potential for integration onto tanks, ships, and Strykers.

Christopher LaNeve, Acting Chief of Staff of the Army, stated the program will enable formations to defeat unmanned systems and dominate from the outset. John Garrity, Vice President of Directed-Energy Systems at AeroVironment, noted the system is purpose built for all types of warfare and environments, expecting the capability to be deployed across all combatant commands globally.