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Army Awards $465M Laser Production Contract to AeroVironment

September 2, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Army awards $465M contract to AeroVironment for E-HEL program.
Contract marks first-ever production deal for high-energy laser weapon.
AV's LOCUST X3 system will be used to counter drone threats.
System can defeat drones at lower cost than kinetic weapons.

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Strategic Implications

This contract may signal the Army's increasing focus on directed energy systems for counter-drone capabilities. The use of high-energy lasers could indicate a shift towards more cost-effective and efficient solutions for defeating unmanned systems, which could have significant implications for the future of military procurement and strategy.

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What Happened

Service Secures First-Ever High Energy Laser Weapon Production Deal

The US Army has awarded AeroVironment a $465 million contract for the Enduring-High Energy Laser (E-HEL) program, marking its first-ever production contract for a high-energy laser weapon. The contract will provide the Army with AV’s LOCUST X3 laser counter drone system, which is designed to take down drone threats up to Group 3 using a 30kw laser. According to AV’s vice president of directed-energy systems, the system will be delivered in dozens over the next few years, with initial capabilities expected within the year. This development was first reported by Breaking Defense.

Source | Originally Published: September 2, 2026

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