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DARPA Explores Self-Defense Lasers For CCAs

June 4, 2026

1 min read

Key Takeaways

DARPA seeks self-defense lasers for Collaborative Combat Aircraft.
Lasers must be in the 100W-20kW output range.
System installation on ground vehicles also considered.
Industry proposals are being solicited.

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Strategic Implications

This initiative may indicate DARPA's focus on enhancing the defensive capabilities of CCAs. The exploration of high-energy laser systems suggests a potential shift in the agency's approach to self-defense technologies, which could have implications for the development of future combat aircraft.

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What Happened

Tactical High-Energy Laser Systems For Collaborative Combat Aircraft

DARPA is exploring the installation of tactical high-energy laser systems on Collaborative Combat Aircraft and ground vehicles for self-defense purposes. The agency has released a ‘shopping notice’ calling for industry proposals for defensive lasers in the 100W-20kW output range. This development may signal a new direction in DARPA’s approach to self-defense technologies. The initiative was first reported by Aviation Week.

Companies Mentioned

DARPA Lockheed Martin GE

Topics

Defense Technology Laser Systems Combat Aircraft Self-Defense DARPA

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Technology & Systems

DARPA Explores Self-Defense Lasers For CCAs

June 4, 2026

1 min read

Key Takeaways

DARPA seeks self-defense lasers for Collaborative Combat Aircraft.
Lasers must be in the 100W-20kW output range.
System installation on ground vehicles also considered.
Industry proposals are being solicited.

Sign in to view key takeaways Get full access to in-depth analysis and key takeaways.

Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Key Takeaways.

Strategic Implications

This initiative may indicate DARPA's focus on enhancing the defensive capabilities of CCAs. The exploration of high-energy laser systems suggests a potential shift in the agency's approach to self-defense technologies, which could have implications for the development of future combat aircraft.

Sign in to view strategic implications Get full access to strategic analysis and expert insights.

Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Strategic Implications.

What Happened

Tactical High-Energy Laser Systems For Collaborative Combat Aircraft

DARPA is exploring the installation of tactical high-energy laser systems on Collaborative Combat Aircraft and ground vehicles for self-defense purposes. The agency has released a ‘shopping notice’ calling for industry proposals for defensive lasers in the 100W-20kW output range. This development may signal a new direction in DARPA’s approach to self-defense technologies. The initiative was first reported by Aviation Week.

Companies Mentioned

DARPA Lockheed Martin GE

Topics

Defense Technology Laser Systems Combat Aircraft Self-Defense DARPA