U.S. Army contracts AeroVironment for $465M laser drone defense system

The U.S. Army has entered into a contract with AeroVironment for the production of the LOCUST X3, a high-energy laser system designed to detect, track, and destroy drones. This marks the first contract for the serial production of high-energy laser weaponry in the history of the U.S. Army.

The LOCUST X3 utilizes a 30-kilowatt laser to target critical components of unmanned aerial vehicles. A primary advantage of this technology is its cost-effectiveness; while traditional anti-aircraft missiles are expensive, a single laser engagement is estimated to cost less than five to ten dollars, as it relies primarily on electrical energy rather than physical ammunition.

Unlike missile-based systems that require reloading, the laser system can continue to operate as long as it has sufficient electrical power and cooling capabilities. This makes it particularly effective against swarms of low-cost drones. The U.S. Army has already conducted real-world testing of such technologies, including the reported downing of three drones near the U.S.-Mexico border in August.