Navy to install laser weapons on destroyer in 2021 to defend against boats and unmanned vehicles

March 21, 2019
WASHINGTON – In the next two years, the Navy wants to deploy laser weapons aboard a guided-missile destroyer as the service learns to integrate directed energy weapon systems on warships, the Navy’s director of surface warfare said on Wednesday. USNI News reports.
WASHINGTON – In the next two years, the Navy wants to deploy laser weapons aboard a guided-missile destroyer as the service learns to integrate directed energy weapon systems on warships, the Navy’s director of surface warfare said on Wednesday. USNI News reports. Continue reading original article

The Military & Aerospace Electronics take:

21 March 2019 -- “We are going to burn the boats if you will and move forward with this technology,” Rear Adm. Ron Boxall said during the Booz, Allen, Hamilton and CSBA Directed Energy Summit 2019.

The service is targeting 2021 to install a High Energy Laser and Integrated Optical-dazzler with Surveillance weapon system aboard a West Coast Arleigh Burke-class Flight IIA destroyer, Boxall said.

The 60-kilowatt HELIOS, much more powerful than the 20-kilowatt laser weapon system the Navy tested aboard afloat forward staging base USS Ponce five years ago, is designed to counter small attack boats small unmanned aerial vehicles.

Related: Navy shipboard laser weapon kills boats and UAVs during three-month at-sea tests in Persian Gulf

Related: The U.S. Navy's new frigate could pack a serious punch; think laser weapons and missiles

Related: Laser weapons show their stuff in real-world conditions

John Keller, chief editor
Military & Aerospace Electronics

Ready to make a purchase? Search the Military & Aerospace Electronics Buyer's Guide for companies, new products, press releases, and videos

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Military Aerospace, create an account today!