The U.S. Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office has received two prototype Laser Weapon Systems designed for counter-drone missions. Built under the Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) effort, the systems pair AeroVironment’s LOCUST 20kW laser with the Infantry Squad Vehicle by GM Defense. This integration produces a nimble, combat-ready solution for dismounted units, offering direct protection against small UAVs. Unlike heavier or static systems, the ISV-mounted lasers enable rapid deployment in contested terrain. Army leaders view this as a milestone toward fielding mobile directed-energy weapons, aligning with the strategy of giving infantry formations autonomous tools to counter swarming drone threats on future battlefields.
