AeroVironment (AV) has delivered two more LOCUST laser weapon systems to the US Army under the Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) program.
The AMP-HEL initiative, awarded to AV subsidiary BlueHalo in 2023, is a continuing prototyping effort designed to protect small ground units from aerial drone threats.
The newly delivered LOCUST systems are installed on Oshkosh Joint Light Tactical Vehicles and feature a 20-kilowatt laser with a larger aperture director, enhancing engagement range and lethality.
This delivery follows the Army’s acceptance of the first two laser weapons for the program in September last year. Those earlier systems, also rated in the 20-kilowatt class but equipped with smaller directors, were integrated onto GM Defense Infantry Squad Vehicles.
AV’s LOCUST platform uses multi-band radio-frequency sensing to detect and track drones, providing protection for dismounted troops. The system offers 360-degree surveillance and can be equipped with optional cameras to widen its visual coverage. Its high-energy laser enables the system to engage and disable hostile reconnaissance or attack drones while airborne.
