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Pentagon Expands Laser-Based Counter-Drone Systems

April 2, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

The Pentagon is expanding laser-based counter-drone systems.
Systems will be used at select US locations.
Concerns over drone incursions near military installations are rising.

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Strategic Implications

This expansion may indicate the Pentagon's growing concern about drone threats to national security. The deployment of laser-based counter-drone systems suggests a shift towards more advanced defense technologies, which could have significant implications for the future of airspace security.

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What Happened

US Military Deploys Direct Energy Weapons To Protect Key Sites

The US military is moving towards wider adoption of laser-based counter-drone systems at key locations, including near President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence and potentially in the nation’s capital. The decision comes as concerns over repeated drone incursions near military installations and other high-priority sites continue to mount. Recent incidents, including multiple waves of drones spotted over Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana, have added urgency to the situation. The Pentagon’s plans were first reported by AeroTime.

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