Laser Weapons Shift from Research to Reality in the Pentagon

Laser weapons, once a futuristic concept, are becoming an integral part of military operations. For decades, these weapons have been one of the Pentagon’s major technological goals. They offer the promise of shooting down drones and missiles at the speed of light. This eliminates the need for costlier interceptors.

The Army is close to awarding a contract for the enduring high energy laser (E-HEL). If successful, this would mark the first transition of a laser weapon into permanent military use. This step is part of a broader push to counter new warfare threats. These include cheap drones that bypass traditional defenses and force the use of expensive missile interceptors.

“It’s not about the laser anymore,” Tom Karako from the Center for Strategic and International Studies notes. “It’s about integrating it into a workable weapon system.” He points out challenges like durability and training.

Key developments are shaping the laser weapons landscape:

• The Army is in contract talks with AeroVironment for E-HEL. The technology had promising tests at White Sands Missile Range.
• The Air Force uses compact laser weapon systems overseas to guard against drones.
• The Navy is incorporating directed-energy weapons aboard destroyers.

These advancements indicate a new phase for directed-energy weapons after significant investment and research.

The U.S. is not alone in this pursuit. Israel, with U.S. support, uses the Iron Beam laser system against threats like rockets and drones. China is also advancing in military laser systems and counter-drone technologies.

Overcoming technical challenges has been central to the U.S.’s progress. Issues such as power generation, beam control, and system durability in operational environments needed resolution. Advancements in these areas have broadened the application of laser weapons.

Despite their potential, lasers will not replace traditional missile defenses. Lasers require a direct line of sight, unlike missiles, which can engage far-off targets. This makes lasers a supplement, not a substitute, in defense strategies.

The Army is also developing a cost-effective counter-drone missile. Estimated below $150,000 per unit, it provides a less expensive alternative to high-cost interceptors. High-powered microwaves are another facet of the Pentagon’s directed-energy strategies. They disable numerous unmanned threats simultaneously using electromagnetic energy bursts.

Additional efforts involve radio-frequency technologies to jam communications and disrupt navigation signals for unmanned drones.