• The Pentagon awards nLIGHT and Lockheed Martin Aculight $86 million for laser development.
• The goal is to field containerized laser systems starting at 150 kilowatts.
• Laser weapons offer a cost-effective solution against drones and cruise missiles.
• The program aims to produce a one-megawatt-class laser prototype.

The adoption of laser weapons may indicate a shift in military strategy towards more cost-effective air defense solutions. This development could suggest that laser technology is becoming a viable option for addressing the growing threat of drones and cruise missiles, which may change the dynamics of air defense and potentially influence the development of future defense systems.