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Pentagon Awards Contracts For Directed Energy Systems

July 10, 2026

1 min read

Key Takeaways

The Pentagon awarded two contracts for directed energy systems.
nLIGHT Defense and Lockheed Martin Aculight are the recipients.
The systems aim to defend against next-gen cruise missiles and drones.
The program is linked to the Golden Dome initiative.

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Strategic Implications

This award may indicate the Pentagon's growing interest in directed energy systems for defense. The selection of Lockheed Martin and nLIGHT Defense suggests a focus on established players in the industry, which could impact the competitive landscape for future contracts and may signal a shift towards more advanced technologies.

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What Happened

Lockheed Martin And nLIGHT Defense Win Deals For Laser Defense

The Pentagon has awarded two contracts to nLIGHT Defense and Lockheed Martin Aculight for the development of directed energy systems. The systems are intended to defend against next-generation cruise missiles and uncrewed aircraft systems as part of a program linked to the Golden Dome initiative. The awards were announced on July 8, with the two companies set to build laser systems to support the US military’s defense capabilities. This development was first reported by Aviation Week.

Source | Originally Published: July 9, 2026

Companies Mentioned