The US Army has officially received its first LOCUST laser weapon prototypes from AV, strengthening its ability to counter drone threats. The project is part of the AMP-HEL program, which seeks to mount high-energy lasers onto Infantry Squad Vehicles. LOCUST features a 20-kilowatt-class weapon with modular, sensor-agnostic integration, ensuring compatibility with diverse detection technologies. Initially developed by BlueHalo under a $45.7-million contract in 2023, the program transitioned to AV after the acquisition. The system provides automated multi-target infrared tracking and supports rapid switching between incoming drones, a critical factor for swarm engagements. Its operator-friendly interface, modeled after gaming controllers, enables faster adoption by troops. The ultra-high bandwidth tracking overlays live threat data on video feeds for precise targeting decisions. LOCUST’s modularity ensures it can be used in mobile and static roles, enhancing battlefield adaptability. Both prototypes were tested rigorously at Yuma Proving Ground before acceptance. The system’s development underscores the US Army’s emphasis on deploying directed-energy weapons to protect ground units from evolving aerial threats. With drones playing a larger role in conflicts, LOCUST could shape how armies adapt to asymmetric warfare in the near future.
