AV's LOCUST Demos Landmark Capability at White Sands with JI
AI Analysis
AeroVironment's LOCUST high-energy laser system successfully demonstrated safe and effective counter-UAS capabilities at White Sands Missile Range in coordination with JIATF-401 and the FAA. The test validated the system's ability to engage drone targets in complex national airspace without impacting civilian aircraft, leading to an agreement supporting domestic use. This marks a significant step towards operational deployment of directed energy C-UAS solutions.
Key Takeaways
- LOCUST demonstrated the ability to engage both stationary and airborne drone targets with precision.
- Automated safety shut-off features and positive identification protocols were successfully tested, ensuring target validation.
- The test was conducted under the oversight of JIATF-401 and in coordination with the FAA, signifying interagency cooperation.
- The demonstration directly supports a Department of War/FAA agreement validating LOCUST for domestic use.
- AeroVironment (AVAV) is the prime contractor for the LOCUST system.
Why It Matters
This successful demonstration accelerates the transition of directed energy C-UAS technology from experimental phases to operational deployment, providing a scalable solution to the growing drone threat. The FAA's involvement is critical for enabling the lawful and safe use of laser-based C-UAS systems within the national airspace. This capability is increasingly vital for protecting critical infrastructure, events, and personnel from malicious drone activity.
AV's LOCUST Demos Landmark Capability at White Sands with JI
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AV's LOCUST Demos Landmark Capability at White Sands with JIATF-401 and FAA
Coordinated test confirms safe, controlled laser engagement of drone targets in complex national airspace
AeroVironment, Inc. ©
AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) today announced a historic milestone for directed energy and homeland defense following the successful execution of a first-of-its-kind counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) laser test in coordination with the U.S. Department of War and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
During an early March test event at White Sands Missile Range (WSMR), led by Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401), AV’s LOCUST® high-energy laser system demonstrated its ability to safely and effectively defend U.S. national airspace against emerging drone threats, directly supporting a subsequent agreement between the DOW and FAA that validates the system for domestic use.
“This is a defining moment for directed energy and for the future of homeland defense,” said John Garrity, Vice President for Directed Energy Systems at AV. “LOCUST has now proven its ability to operate safely and effectively in the most complex airspace environment in the world. This achievement accelerates the transition of directed energy from experimentation to operational deployment—delivering a scalable, cost-effective solution to counter the rapidly growing drone threat.”
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The test at WSMR demonstrated automated safety shut-off capabilities that ensure the system only engages validated targets, among other safety features. The testing also showed no adverse impact to civilian aircraft during controlled evaluation scenarios and showed precision engagement through strict positive identification protocols.
AV’s LOCUST also showed the ability to hit both stationary and airborne targets to demonstrate accuracy, persistence, and operational realism.
“This successful test showcases the significant advancements we’re making in counter-drone technology to ensure that our warfighters have the most advanced tools to defend the homeland,” U.S. Army Brigadier General Matt Ross, director of JIATF-401 said recently in a joint Press Release. “By working hand-in-hand with the FAA and our interagency partners, the Department of War is proving that these cutting-edge capabilities are safe, effective, and ready to protect all air travelers from illicit drone use in the national airspace.”
The demonstration at WSMR comes amid increasing urgency to address drone incursions across U.S. airspace. The successful validation of LOCUST undersc