AV has handed over the first two prototypes of its LOCUST mobile counter-drone laser weapon system (LWS) to the US Army, marking a significant milestone in directed-energy warfare. This delivery falls under the Army’s Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) initiative, which plans to equip Infantry Squad Vehicles with a 20-kilowatt-class laser weapon. The system is designed to provide frontline soldiers with effective protection against hostile unmanned aerial systems (UAS), an increasingly persistent battlefield threat. Originally awarded in April 2023, the $45.7-million contract was given to BlueHalo, which was later acquired by AeroVironment and now operates as AV. The LOCUST incorporates a plug-and-play sensor-agnostic architecture, meaning it can integrate seamlessly with different sensors across multiple RF bands. This flexibility is crucial as drone technologies evolve quickly, requiring adaptive defense measures. The system also boasts multi-target infrared search-and-track modes, enabling automatic target acquisition and engagement across multiple drones simultaneously. To simplify operation, LOCUST features an interface modeled after gaming controllers, making it more intuitive for soldiers with minimal training. This approach reduces the learning curve while enhancing rapid decision-making under stress. Another notable feature is its ultra-high bandwidth tracking, which overlays real-time data on HD video feeds, allowing operators to evaluate threats with precision. Furthermore, LOCUST can operate on both mobile and fixed platforms thanks to its modular design, supporting different deployment needs. Prior to delivery, the prototypes underwent integration at AV’s Directed Energy facility in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and completed testing at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona. This milestone reflects the Army’s growing investment in laser weapon systems to counter the escalating threat of drone swarms on the modern battlefield.
