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Navy Chief Backs Laser Weapons for New Battleships

February 11, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Navy Chief Adm. Daryl Caudle supports advancing laser weapons.
New Trump-class battleships may drive adoption on other Navy ships.
Caudle expects a comprehensive directed energy strategy to be established.

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Strategic Implications

The Navy's emphasis on laser weapons may indicate a shift towards more advanced, technologically-driven defense systems. This could suggest a significant investment in directed energy capabilities, which may have implications for the Navy's future procurement and modernization plans.

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What Happened

Admiral Caudle Sees Directed Energy As Key To Future Naval Power

The US Navy’s top officer, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle, has expressed support for advancing laser weapons, particularly on the new Trump-class battleships. Caudle believes that the development of laser technology could solve problems not only for shipboard use but also for base protection. The Navy has already begun testing laser systems on destroyers, with the Preble equipped with the HELIOS system and other ships outfitted with the ODIN laser. According to Breaking Defense, the Navy plans to establish a comprehensive directed energy strategy to guide investments and development.

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