[REVISION HISTORY]

US Army counter-drone procurement and border operations

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What changed

2026-09-10 05:31 UTC → 2026-09-14 08:12 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In early August 2026, the U.S. Army began expanding its counter-drone arsenal through both kinetic and directed-energy initiatives. On 4 August, the Army issued a request for information for a Next Generation Counter-sUAS Missile (NGCM). The service seeks to procure at least 5,000 missiles, each costing less than $150,000, capable of engaging Group 2 and Group 3 unmanned aerial systems weighing between 21 lb and 1,320 lb. The NGCM is intended to integrate with existing Raytheon Coyote launchers and radar systems such as Patriot, AN/TPQ-53, and Sentinel, with a desired launch reaction time of five seconds. Simultaneously, the Army has prioritized directed-energy solutions. Following an initial $400 million announcement on 7 August regarding AeroVironment’s Locust laser systems, the Army awarded a $464.8 million contract for the LOCUST X3 high-energy laser system in early September. ~~As part of the Enduring High Energy Laser (E-HEL) program, this~~ This contract marks the first production order for directed-energy weapons in U.S. history, transitioning the technology from prototype to large-scale fielding. The 30-kilowatt LOCUST X3 is designed to target Group 1, 2, and 3 drones, offering an estimated cost of under $5 per shot. Unlike electronic jamming, the laser provides a physical means of disabling drones to prevent reuse for surveillance. The modular systems can be integrated into platforms such as the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle and Infantry Squad Vehicles. The system is noted for its ability to combat drone swarms, as it can continue to operate as long as it maintains sufficient electrical power and cooling. Operational use of these technologies has intensified along the southern border. U.S. Northern Command reported that more than 300 drones linked to transnational criminal organizations have been neutralized since the start of 2026. Between 24 August and 4 September, the U.S. Army utilized its AMP-HEL high-energy laser system to neutralize at least 11 unauthorized drones.

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