Army to Equip New Large Drones with Laser Weapon Capability
WASHINGTON — As global militaries accelerate the search for affordable air defense capabilities, the U.S. Army is planning to equip at least some aircraft in its next-generation large drone fleet with high-energy laser systems, according to an Army official who spoke with Breaking Defense. The service is preparing to formally launch a competitive acquisition for new Group 4 or 5 unmanned aerial systems—large and very large platforms—designed to replace its current fleet of General Atomics-manufactured Gray Eagle drones. The Army Requirements Oversight Council approved the Capability Development Document outlining requirements and an acquisition strategy in late October, which details plans for short takeoff and landing (STOL) or vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) systems.