AeroVironment's LOCUST Demons Directed Energy Capability at White Sands with JIATF-401 and FAA - Europe Defence Insights Magazine | EDI
AI Analysis
AeroVironment's LOCUST directed energy system successfully demonstrated C-UAS capabilities at White Sands Missile Range in coordination with JIATF-401 and the FAA. The system proved effective against both stationary and airborne targets, with automated safety features preventing unintended engagement of civilian aircraft. This testing resulted in an agreement validating LOCUST for domestic use, accelerating its potential operational deployment.
Key Takeaways
- AeroVironment's LOCUST laser system successfully engaged drone targets at White Sands Missile Range (WSMR).
- Testing was conducted in coordination with Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401) and the FAA.
- LOCUST demonstrated automated safety shut-off and positive identification protocols to prevent collateral damage.
- The test resulted in an agreement validating LOCUST for domestic airspace defense.
- LOCUST is positioned as a scalable, cost-effective solution for countering the growing drone threat.
Why It Matters
This successful demonstration signifies a major step towards operationalizing directed energy weapons for C-UAS, offering a potentially decisive advantage in defending against drone swarms and illicit drone activity. The FAA's validation is crucial for domestic deployment, addressing increasing concerns about drone incursions and airspace security. This could lead to wider adoption of laser-based C-UAS systems by both military and civilian agencies.
AeroVironment's LOCUST Demons Directed Energy Capability at White Sands with JIATF-401 and FAA - Europe Defence Insights Magazine | EDI
Home Drones AeroVironment’s LOCUST Demons Directed Energy Capability at White Sands with JIATF-401 and FAA
AeroVironment’s LOCUST Demons Directed Energy Capability at White Sands with JIATF-401 and FAA
May 31, 2026
May 31, 2026
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AeroVironment, Inc. has 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 conducted 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. The test directly supported a subsequent agreement between the Department of War and the FAA validating the system for domestic use.
John Garrity, Vice President for Directed Energy Systems at AeroVironment, stated:“This is a defining moment for directed energy and for the future of homeland defense. 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.”
The test at WSMR demonstrated automated safety shut-off capabilities ensuring the system engages only validated targets, along with other safety features. Testing also showed no adverse impact on civilian aircraft during controlled evaluation scenarios and demonstrated precision engagement through strict positive identification protocols. LOCUST successfully engaged both stationary and airborne targets, proving accuracy, persistence, and operational realism.
U.S. Army Brigadier General Matt Ross, Director of JIATF-401, stated:“This successful test showcases the significant advancements we are making in counter-drone technology to ensure that our warfighters have the most advanced tools to defend the homeland. 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 comes amid increasing urgency to address drone incursions across U.S. airspace. The successful validation of LOCUST underscores its role as a critical layer in a modern, integrated air defense architecture — providing precision engagement, deep magazine capacity, and the ability to defeat threats at the speed of light.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford added:“The FAA’s top priority is protecting the safety of the America