AeroVironment passes the FAA test for the first time with the 20 kW LOCUST laser at White Sands and clears the system to take down drones without risk to civilian aircraft. - CPG Click Oil and Gas
AI Analysis
AeroVironment’s 20kW LOCUST laser counter-UAS system has successfully completed FAA testing at White Sands, demonstrating the ability to neutralize drones without impacting civilian air traffic. This certification allows for operational deployment near commercial airports and along the US southern border, with initial fielding planned at five military bases, including Fort Bliss. The system boasts a range of up to 5km and represents a significant step forward in directed energy weapon deployment.
Key Takeaways
- AeroVironment’s LOCUST 20kW laser system passed FAA testing on May 6, 2026, at White Sands, NM.
- The system demonstrated the ability to defeat drones without interfering with civilian aircraft navigation.
- FAA certification allows LOCUST deployment near commercial airports and on the US southern border under a formal agreement with the Department of War.
- The Pentagon has selected five military bases, including Fort Bliss, to receive the LOCUST system.
- LOCUST is a directed energy weapon with a range of up to 5km, developed in partnership with BlueHalo.
Why It Matters
This FAA approval marks a critical milestone for directed energy weapons, enabling their practical use in complex airspace environments. The LOCUST system addresses a growing threat from rogue drones, providing a non-kinetic counter-UAS capability for protecting critical infrastructure and military assets. Successful deployment will likely drive further investment and development in laser-based defense systems.
AeroVironment passes the FAA test for the first time with the 20 kW LOCUST laser at White Sands and clears the system to take down drones without risk to civilian aircraft. - CPG Click Oil and Gas
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AeroVironment passes the FAA test for the first time with the 20 kW LOCUST laser at White Sands and clears the system to take down drones without risk to civilian aircraft.
Written by Douglas Avila
Published on 13/05/2026 at 18:03
Armed Forces, Geopolitics
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AeroVironment’s 20 kW System Passes Joint Test with FAA and JIATF 401 on May 6, 2026
AeroVironment has passed the FAA test for the first time with its LOCUST laser anti-drone 20 kW system. The test took place on May 6, 2026, in White Sands, New Mexico.
According to Task & Purpose, the LOCUST managed to take down multiple drones without affecting civilian aircraft navigation in the area.
This certification is historic for the sector. As reported by DefenseScoop, it allows the LOCUST to operate in military bases near commercial airports.
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Therefore, the system is authorized for use on the southern US border. According to the FAA, there is a formal agreement between the air agency and the Department of War.
In parallel, the Pentagon selected 5 military bases to receive the LOCUST. According to Defense News, Fort Bliss is one of the selected bases.
Indeed, the LOCUST enters real operation in 2026. After years as a prototype, it will finally shoot down drones in an operational environment.
LOCUST firing at drones during test at White Sands, AeroVironment reference
What is the LOCUST laser anti-drone
The LOCUST laser anti-drone is a directed energy weapon system. It has 20 kW of power and uses a laser beam to damage drones in flight.
According to the official datasheet from BlueHalo, a project partner, the system has an effective range of up to 5 km.
Therefore, it is effective