The U.S. Military Wants a Fleet of Laser Trucks
AI Analysis
The U.S. military is nearing selection of a high-energy laser weapon system specifically for countering drones. A key remaining challenge is identifying suitable vehicle platforms to mount and operate these laser systems. This indicates a shift towards mobile, directed-energy solutions for short-range air defense.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. military is prioritizing high-energy laser (HEL) weapons for the counter-drone mission.
- The primary focus is now on vehicle integration – finding platforms to deploy the selected laser systems.
- The article suggests a decision on the laser weapon itself is close to being finalized.
- This initiative targets short-range air defense against UAS threats.
- The development implies a move away from solely kinetic or electronic warfare methods for C-UAS.
Why It Matters
The deployment of mobile HEL systems offers a potentially cost-effective and scalable solution to the growing drone threat. Success in this program could reduce reliance on ammunition-based C-UAS systems and provide a 'soft kill' option, minimizing collateral damage. This also signals a continued investment in directed energy weapons as a viable defense capability.
Jared Keller, Defense News <br/> <p>The U.S. military is closing in on its high-energy laser weapon of choice for counter-drone missions. Now it needs the vehicles to support it.</p>