The US Navy demonstrated its new HELIOS laser weapon that intercepts enemy drones, missiles, and sensors.
The Pentagon’s annual Director, Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT&E) report shows the USS Preble firing the high-energy armament.
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Straight Arrow News says it’s the first tactical laser weapon system integrated into an existing US naval vessel.
The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer vessel was targeting a surrogate drone to prove its real-world capabilities.
The testing date and location remain classified. However, the report confirms that the trial occurred during fiscal year 2024.
Security news publication The Defense Post says defense company Lockheed Martin developed the US Navy’s new weapon.
The High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical Dazzler and Surveillance (HELIOS) shoots over 60 kilowatts of concentrated energy.
That amount of power can power up to 60 homes. Also, it can perform hard and soft kills of hostile targets.
Hard kills mean HELIOS can destroy hostile threats physically. For example, it can melt or overheat aerial drones.
On the other hand, soft kills allow the laser weapon to disrupt electronic components. For instance, it could disrupt intelligence and reconnaissance sensors.
More importantly, it is a relatively low-cost solution to drones.
Modern conflicts like the ongoing Ukraine-Russia engagement show how drones are becoming more prevalent in warfare.
Other countries have also been developing energy weapons. Last year, the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defense tested its DragonFire laser weapon.
UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said:
“This type of cutting-edge weaponry has the potential to revolutionize the battlespace by reducing the reliance on expensive ammunition while also lowering the risk of collateral damage.”
“The cost of operating the laser is typically less than £10 per shot,” the UK Defense Ministry said.
