The Department of Defense announced on Monday that it has selected the directed-energy systems it will use to test counter drones as part of a pilot program led by the Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401).
The program will evaluate the systems’ performance providing real-time data and feedback on the systems’ requirements, costs, and best practices. It will be conducted in close coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), U.S. Northern Command and the Services.
“There is no silver bullet, or one size fits all solution to countering the threat of drones,” U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross JIATF 401 director, said. “Directed energy gives commanders another option within a layered defense, complementing existing counter-UAS capabilities with a scalable, safe, and effective way to respond to drone threats. This pilot program will give us vital information in a real-world environment so we can employ these systems to protect the homeland.”
Systems selected include the AeroVironment Palletized High-Energy Laser system, the Epirus Leonidas High-Powered Microwave system, the Kord Firefly High-Energy Laser system and the
Boeing Compact Laser Weapon system.
JIATF-401 partnered with the FAA earlier this year to conduct a safety risk assessment during a live-fire HEL demonstration. The FAA determined that the system posed minimal risk to the National Airspace System and established a framework for continued coordination.