Efforts are underway to develop a containerized version of the US Navy’s 60-kilowatt HELIOS laser weapon, following legislative support for expanding mobile directed energy capabilities. The concept would allow the laser system to be integrated onto a wider variety of naval vessels, including aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, expeditionary sea bases, sealift vessels, and surface combatants. By providing a flexible and deployable defensive capability, the system could help protect naval assets from drones, fast attack craft, and incoming missiles while also supporting shore-based defense applications.
