The U.S. Army recently awarded Virginia-based integrated defense technology company AeroVironment’s (AV) New Mexico facility with an other-transaction-agreement for the production of directed-energy weapons.
The contract, the Army’s first production for a high energy laser weapon system, is through the Enduring-High Energy Laser (E-HEL) program. The program is part of the Army’s effort to deliver to soldiers scalable, affordable and adaptable directed energy capabilities. This contract moves E-HEL from prototype development to production.
“The key to successfully countering all levels of drones is a layered defense of sensors and effectors,” Under Secretary of the Army Mike Obadal said. “AV and the Army have worked for years to develop directed energy solutions, and we are proud to give our soldiers a decisive edge against drone threats.”
Directed-energy weapons are powered by electric energy and generate a lethal high-energy laser beam. They can be used to take out drones at a much lower cost than traditional weapons.
The E-HEL was developed using a modular-open-systems-approach design and is not locked into a single platform or vehicle. It can be deployed from fixed bases, semi-fixed tactical sites and mobile combat vehicles. As the Army’s requirements change, E-HEL can onboard cutting-edge capabilities and continuous technology upgrades.