The Australians showed the Apollo laser, which destroys 50 drones per minute and costs pennies per shot

Laser in a container — mobility as an advantage

The Australian company Electro Optic Systems (EOS) has revealed details of its Apollo laser weapon for the first time before the DSEI exhibition in London. The system is packaged in a standard 20-foot ISO container, the same one that is carried on trucks and ships. This means that you have delivered it, connected it, and you are already protecting the object. This mobility is a huge plus for the army, where it takes every hour to deploy.

The Apollo is not a huge installation at the base, but a weapon that can be quickly deployed to where drones have become a threat.

150 kW per target: how it shoots down drones

The laser power is 150 kilowatts. This is enough to burn through the drone's body in a few seconds, disable the electronics or set the engine on fire. The system works on the principle of a "point strike": it focuses on the vulnerable part — most often on the propellers or the battery.

EOS claims that the installation is capable of hitting up to 50 drones per minute. This does not mean that she shoots 50 times — she switches between targets, quickly and accurately, as the beam burns through one, and immediately moves on to the next.

Why is it the "cheapest weapon"

One of the main advantages of a laser is the cost of a shot. A rocket or a bullet costs hundreds or thousands of dollars. And a laser is electricity. One "shot" costs a few cents. Even if you shoot down 100 drones in a row, the costs will be several times lower than from a single rocket launch.

In an environment where enemies are attacking with swarms of cheap drones, this is what makes the laser strategically advantageous. It's not just a weapon — it's the economics of war.

The first deal with NATO is not just a show—off

In August, EOS signed the world's first export contract for the supply of 100 kW class laser weapons with one of the NATO countries. This is not a demonstration, but a real purchase. This means that the system has been tested for combat capability, reliability and compatibility with army standards.

Entering the NATO market is a major breakthrough for the Australian company and for the entire directed energy industry. Now lasers are no longer the "technology of the future" — they are already here.

Sources

1. Focus.ua — Apollo laser weapon vs. drone swarms
2. Building-Tech.org — EOS 100 kW next-gen combat laser for drone defence
3. Armiya.az — EOS exports laser weapon to European NATO member

The US Army has received the first mobile lasers against drones — they are already at the test site

Two prototypes, one laser — how AMP-HEL works

On September 3, AeroVironment officially announced that the US Army has received the first prototypes of mobile laser systems for combating drones. This is not fiction or laboratory testing — two combat samples have already been transferred to the Office of Army Rapid Response Capabilities (RCCTO) as part of the AMP-HEL — Multi-domain, High-Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) program.

The goal is simple — to destroy small and medium-sized drones, which are increasingly becoming a threat on the battlefield.

20 kW, ISV and drones: what's in the build

Each prototype is equipped with a 20 kilowatt LOCUST laser system. This is not the kind of laser that will boil a tank, but it is more than enough to shoot down quadrocopters, reconnaissance drones and even small attack vehicles. The main thing is accuracy and speed. The laser hits the target in seconds, without wasting ammunition and leaving no traces.

All this is installed on the ISV platform, an SUV that the army buys from General Motors Defense. It is lightweight, passable and fits easily into tactical groups. That is, you can take the laser with you, rather than waiting for it to be brought from the base.

Laser on wheels — why is it in the shelf

Previously, anti—drone systems were either stationary or radio-electronic - silencers. The laser is the next level. It doesn't just jam the signal, it destroys the drone itself: it burns through the body, breaks the screws, and disables the electronics.

And most importantly, it's mobile. Imagine: a company is moving forward, and suddenly a reconnaissance drone appears above the forest. After 10 seconds, there is a flash, smoke, and the device crashes. No rockets, no popping. Just a ray of light and the result.

Why is this more important than it seems?

At first glance, 20 kW is not enough. But it's a start. The AMP-HEL program is not about a single laser, but about creating an entire ecosystem of mobile directed energy systems. Today it's 20 kW, tomorrow it's 50, then 100. And not only against drones, but also against missiles, mines and even unmanned boats.

The US Army no longer wants to depend on limited ammunition. The laser works as long as there is electricity. And this is the future of air defense.

Sources

1. Army Technology — AV supplies first US AMP-HEL laser prototypes
2. AeroVironment Press Release — delivery of first two multi-purpose high-energy laser systems to US Army
3. Marketscreener — AeroVironment delivers first two multi-purpose high energy laser systems to US Army
4. Investing.com — AeroVironment delivers first laser weapon systems to US Army
5. Optics.org — AV delivers first two multi-purpose high-energy laser weapons

Israel is preparing a laser shield — in five years, Iran's missiles will burn up in the sky

Lasers instead of missiles: cheap protection against cheap threats

Michael Edelstein of Elbit Systems said that Israel's laser systems will be ready for full-scale use in less than five years. Already, on-board laser installations for fighter jets are in the final stages of development. And the Rafael Iron Beam ground-based system has passed real combat tests and will soon enter service with the Israel Defense Forces.

The bottom line is simple: instead of spending millions on interceptor missiles, shoot down cheap missiles and drones with a laser for pennies.

Iron Beam is already working — and it hits exactly

The Iron Beam is not a prototype. It has already been used in conditions close to combat, and has shown high efficiency. The system is capable of intercepting missiles, artillery shells and drones at short ranges. Unlike the Iron Dome, which spends $50-100 thousand per interception, the laser costs only a few dollars per shot.

It works according to the principle: aimed — turned on — burned. And it can work continuously as long as there is electricity.

Onboard lasers for fighter jets are already in development

Elbit is currently completing the creation of compact laser installations that can be installed directly on fighter jets, for example, on the F-16 or future F-35I. This will allow the aircraft to defend against surface–to-air missiles and even attack ground targets.

Imagine: a fighter is flying, sees MANPADS, and destroys it with one pulse. No rocket launch, no noise, no smoke. Just a light, and the target disappears.

Why does this change everything

Israel is currently spending billions on missile defense, but the threat is growing: Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas are all actively using missiles and drones. Lasers are not just a new weapon, they are a change in the defense economy.

One Iron Beam will be able to intercept hundreds of targets per day. And a network of such systems will make the country virtually invulnerable to massive attacks. And most importantly, it costs many times less than current systems.

Sources

1. Rossiyskaya Gazeta — how Israel plans to use lasers to destroy incoming missiles
2. Lenta.ru — Israel to field Iron Beam laser; contract details & performance
3. Building-Tech.org — Iron Beam laser shield for intercepting & destroying air threats
4. Wikipedia — Iron Beam mine & drone interception laser weapon
5. Lechaim.ru (via Ynetnews) — first combat intercept of Hezbollah drones with Iron Beam
6. Aurora Israel — world-first operational Iron Beam intercept, Israel’s technological milestone

China shows laser "anti-drones" — how to shoot down UAVs with a beam of light

OW5-A50 laser system

China has once again reminded the world that it is not lagging behind in the technology race — Norinco (aka China North Industries) conducted live firing of its new OW5-A50 laser system at a training ground in Inner Mongolia. And they weren't firing guns, but a beam of light.

The OW5-A50 system is part of the "anti—drone" solutions that are currently trending in all armies of the world. Its mission is to detect, escort, and destroy drones, including small and cheap ones that can be dangerous in large numbers. The laser heats the target to a critical temperature, and the drone simply falls as if de—energized.

The tests were conducted as part of a specialized event dedicated to unmanned technologies and protection against them, and, importantly, with an export orientation. That is, Norinco clearly wants to sell the OW5-A50 to other countries, especially those who are looking for an inexpensive and effective way to combat drones.

Why is this interesting? Because lasers are accurate, fast, and cheap compared to rockets. One shot and you're done, the main thing is to have a reserve of energy. And although such systems will not completely replace traditional weapons yet, they are already becoming a serious element of the air defense of the future.

So China isn't just watching trends — it's actively playing into them. And OW5-A50 is another signal that "lightsabers" are no longer from fiction, but from real arsenals.

Turkey has released a supertank with a laser against drones — ALKA-KAPLAN breaks through borders

 

ALKA—KAPLAN

Have you ever heard of a tank that shoots lasers instead of bullets? Turkey has just introduced such a thing, the ALKA—KAPLAN hybrid vehicle with a state-of-the-art directed energy system that effectively fights drones right on the battlefield.

This is not just another tank, it is a real high—tech project that combines a tracked chassis, a hybrid engine and a laser capable of shooting down drones in different conditions. Imagine: small drones, quadrocopters, even enemy ammunition — for ALKA-KAPLAN they are like laser targets.

Drones are increasingly being used in wars and conflicts today. They can do reconnaissance, strike, and even mine the area. There was a great need to defend against them. ALKA-KAPLAN is the answer to this threat, which allows you to destroy drones quickly and efficiently, without loud volleys and at minimal cost.

It is based on a hybrid power plant that is powered by a battery and an engine. This gives the tank the energy to launch the laser, and also allows it to operate autonomously without unnecessary noise and exhaust. The laser precisely and quickly incapacitates drones, and the system does not depend on satellites or GPS, which is very important on modern battlefields.

ALKA-KAPLAN will be released at the IDEF 2025 exhibition in Ankara, one of the largest defense exhibitions. There, Turkey intends to show the world its technological leadership and willingness to implement cutting-edge developments.

It is planned that the ALKA-KAPLAN will enter service with the Turkish army in the next couple of years. In addition, this system may have foreign buyers, because such protection from drones will definitely be in demand today.

In general, if it used to seem that tanks were just armored vehicles with guns, now lasers and high technology are coming into play. And Turkey is clearly not going to lag behind. ALKA-KAPLAN is a bold step into the future of warfare, where the one with the best "electronic weapons" will win.

Russia expands Laser Air Defense Forces: The "staff" shoots down drones without ammunition and on any armor

 

(Posoh) the "Staff" laser system

Against the background of the growing threats from unmanned aerial vehicles, a new promising anti—drone system has appeared in the Russian armed forces - the "Staff" laser system (Posoh). It is reported that the new weapon is capable of effectively disabling small UAVs at a distance of up to 2 km, providing high mobility and autonomy of use.

Unlike the Peresvet laser system already in service, which is used in stationary or semi-stationary conditions, the Staff is a more compact and mobile solution. The installation is powered by batteries and can be placed on almost any armored vehicle, making it ideal for operational deployment in the field.

The principle of operation of the system is the pinpoint effect of a laser beam on key elements of the drone.:

- failure of electronics; 

- melting of wires and structural parts;  

- damage to engines and impaired aerodynamics.

According to experts, the advantage of the laser is that it does not require traditional ammunition — the "ammunition" does not run out, and shooting is possible an unlimited number of times, as long as there is energy. This makes the system cost-effective and highly efficient in the face of intense drone counteraction.

The creation of such technologies demonstrates Russia's desire to reach a new level of countering drones, especially in modern warfare, where strike and reconnaissance UAVs play a key role.

Given the successful development of laser technologies and their implementation in tactical units, we can expect further development of this area in the Russian defense industry.

Turkey is making progress in creating a multi-level air defense system "Steel Dome"

Turkey is actively working to create its own multi-level air defense system called the Steel Dome, which should become the cornerstone of national security and the protection of the country's airspace. This project received a new impetus against the background of the aggravation of the Iranian-Israeli conflict, which prompted Ankara to strengthen measures to protect its borders and airspace.

Main characteristics of the Steel Dome system

- Multi—level architecture: The system will consist of four echelons - short-range anti-aircraft missile systems (SAM), short- and medium-range air defense systems, extended-range complexes and laser counteraction systems.

- Integration and automation: All components will be integrated into a single network using modern electronic warfare (EW) and control systems, which will ensure effective detection and destruction of aerial threats in real time.

- Laser weapons: The system will include laser installations capable of neutralizing drones and projectiles at short distances, which will significantly increase the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of defense.

- National production: The systems are being developed and manufactured by leading Turkish defense companies such as ASELSAN and ROKETSAN, which reduces dependence on foreign technology and strengthens the country's defense industry.

Reasons and relevance of creation

The decision to create the "Steel Dome" was made in August 2024 at a meeting of the Turkish National Security Council. The aggravation of the situation in the Middle East, in particular, the Israeli attacks on Iran, forced Ankara to strengthen the protection of its airspace and land borders.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced plans to increase production of medium- and long-range missiles, stressing the importance of creating a reliable air defense system that could ensure the deterrence and security of the country.

Current achievements and plans

- Korkut anti-aircraft guns and HISAR medium-range systems capable of hitting targets at distances from 15 to 40 km have already been developed and are being tested.

- Work is underway on extended-range complexes such as SIPER, capable of destroying multiple targets simultaneously at a distance of over 100 km.

- Laser anti-drone guns are being actively tested, which will be able to work offline around the clock.

- Turkey plans to commission a fully national Steel Dome system by 2028, and its own satellite guidance system by 2030 to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of air defense.

Importance for regional security

The creation of a "Steel Dome" will allow Turkey to significantly increase its level of protection against modern aerial threats, including ballistic missiles, drones and enemy aircraft. This will strengthen the country's strategic independence and enhance its role in ensuring stability in the region.

Rafael announced the first successful combat use of the Iron Ray laser system

 

 Iron Ray

The Israeli defense company Rafael has announced the world's first successful combat use of a high-energy laser. Presumably, we are talking about the Iron Ray missile defense system, designed to intercept and destroy ultra-short-range missiles. Directed energy weapons were first used in real conditions during the Middle East conflict in 2024.

The history of the use of lasers in military operations began in the 1960s - during the Vietnam War, lasers were used as target designators and rangefinders. In the Falklands War of 1982, they were used to temporarily disorient the enemy. However, laser weapons were not used to disable objects in real combat. So far, the case has been limited to field trials.

However, this was bound to happen sooner or later, and the current military conflicts provide defense companies with an excellent opportunity to show the effectiveness of their developments in practice. Yesterday, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems announced on the X network that the company's laser system has been tested by combat, demonstrating high accuracy and effectiveness of intercepting targets at various distances: "For the first time in history, high-energy laser systems have been used to intercept aerial targets in combat. This unprecedented breakthrough occurred during 'The Iron Sword Wars.'"

The company does not say where or when this happened. However, according to the Israeli Ministry of Defense, the incident occurred in 2024. Then the laser systems managed to intercept dozens of UAVs and missiles launched by members of the Shiite organization Hezbollah. The development of these systems was carried out under the leadership of the Ministry of Defense with the involvement of specialists from the Rafael concern.

We are talking about prototypes of the Rafael laser system, on the basis of which a more powerful "Iron Beam" was created, a missile defense system that should strengthen the "Iron Dome" over Israel. Its power is 100 kW and its range is 10 km. It is capable of operating in all weather conditions and integrates with existing air defense systems. This makes it a universal tool for protecting both military installations and civilian infrastructure.

Rafael plans to further improve the Iron Ray, increasing its power and expanding the range of intercepted targets. In parallel, negotiations are underway to supply the complex to other states.

India has recently become one of the countries with laser weapons. In April, energy weapons developed by Indian engineers at domestic enterprises were tested.

Lockheed Martin is leading the development of laser weapon systems for combat platforms

 

Lockheed Martin Corporation is at the forefront of the revolution in defense technology, actively developing and implementing directed energy systems, in particular, laser weapon systems. These technologies promise to fundamentally change the nature of warfare, offering unprecedented defensive and precision strike capabilities. According to Steven Botvinik, director of Advanced Sensor and Global Software programs at Lockheed Martin, the company creates comprehensive solutions that cover the entire cycle: from detecting and identifying threats, assessing their danger to a carrier platform (for example, an airplane), to using appropriate weapons, which in this case is a laser system.

The video demonstrates the concepts of using laser weapons on various platforms – sea, land and air. The words "DIRECTED ENERGY" and "THE TIME FOR LASER WEAPON SYSTEMS HAS COME" ("Directed energy" and "The time for laser weapon systems has come") emphasize the maturity of these technologies. We see how a US Navy ship shoots down targets with a laser beam, a mobile ground installation hits a flying object, and a fighter destroys an enemy missile. These visualizations are not just futuristic fantasies, but a reflection of real developments and tests.Daniel Miller, senior researcher at Skunk Works, Lockheed Martin's legendary advanced development division, emphasizes that customers need a layered, multi-domain defensive approach. This means that the systems must be integrated on various platforms (air, land, sea) and capable of neutralizing threats in all these environments. Laser weapons fit perfectly into this concept due to their unique characteristics. Miller describes the capabilities of a laser system installed, for example, on an airplane: neutralizing threats at the speed of light, which makes evasion almost impossible; surgical precision, which minimizes collateral damage; and virtually unlimited "ammunition", since the system is powered by on-board energy sources, and not from a limited number of missiles or projectiles. This is especially important when repelling massive attacks, such as swarms of drones. In addition, lasers have a scalable effect: from temporarily blinding or disabling the target's sensors to its complete physical destruction.Using the example of an F-16 fighter equipped with a ventral laser module, it is demonstrated how an aircraft can defend itself against air-to-air or ground-to-air missiles. The laser beam hits the missile, causing it to detonate or collapse at a safe distance. This dramatically increases the survival rate of the pilot and the aircraft. Similar systems, called the Integrated Tactical Airborne Laser, are being developed for other types of aircraft, including larger aircraft that may need self-defense.Laser systems are also used on earth. The video shows an armored vehicle equipped with a combat laser that successfully hits an aerial target, possibly a drone or a missile. The label "PROVEN SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE" indicates that these developments are based on proven and reliable components. Sarah Reeves, Vice President of the Missile Defense Program, talks about the ATHENA system. This laser weapon system is capable of integrating into classified combat control networks and receiving target designation from external radars, for example, at a training ground, to complete a complete chain of target destruction – from detection to destruction. This was demonstrated in tests where ATHENA successfully shot down drones.

In the marine sector, Lockheed Martin is developing the HELIOS (High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical dazzler and Surveillance) system. Tyler Griffin, director of Laser and Sensor Systems, explains that HELIOS builds on the company's 40 years of experience in developing combat systems and radars.The most important aspect is that HELIOS is not just additional equipment installed on a ship, but a system fully integrated into its combat circuits. This is a fundamental difference from previous prototypes, which were often standalone demonstrators. The integration makes it possible to use all the capabilities of shipboard sensors and control systems for effective laser application. The video shows a HELIOS-equipped destroyer that can counter threats such as small boats, drones, and potentially more sophisticated targets. "The transition to the full integration of laser weapon systems on ships" is a key stage of development.Steven Botvinik also emphasizes the scalability of the technology. Previously, high-power lasers were bulky laboratory installations, but now they have reached the required level of power, efficiency and compactness for use on the battlefield.

 Today's systems are capable of hitting unguided missiles, artillery shells, mines (RAM threats) and small UAVs. As power continues to increase and technology improves, lasers will be able to protect aircraft from missiles and even destroy ballistic missiles at long distances.Lockheed Martin demonstrates its advanced capabilities in optics, beam control systems, high–energy lasers, guidance systems, and power and heat management - all critical components for creating effective laser weapons. The company's engineers and technicians work carefully on every element, from polishing mirrors to assembling complex optoelectronic components.

Thus, laser weapon systems cease to be science fiction and become a real tool on the battlefield. Lockheed Martin, thanks to its comprehensive developments, systematic approach and deep expertise, plays a leading role in this process. These technologies are designed to provide a qualitative advantage, protect personnel, and effectively counter current and future threats in the air, on land, and at sea. As the company's motto, shown at the end, says: "Lockheed Martin. Your Mission is Ours." ("Lockheed Martin. Your mission is our mission.").

General Atomics confirms the development of an aerial laser for MQ-9 drones

General Atomics has officially confirmed the existence of a new program aimed at creating airborne laser weapons for MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicles. The program was presented at the Sea Air Space 2025 exhibition and is part of a joint initiative of the US Department of Defense. Its goal is to equip the MQ-9 fleet, which is in service with the US Air Force and Marine Corps, with advanced laser weapons.

The MQ-9 Reaper has long established itself as a reliable drone capable of performing surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions. However, the integration of on-board laser weapons can significantly expand its capabilities. Laser weapons will allow drones to effectively destroy air and ground targets with high accuracy and minimal resource expenditure.

The program is aimed at developing compact and powerful laser systems that can be installed on the MQ-9 without significant design changes. This will make it possible to use drones to counter enemy drones, destroy lightly armored vehicles, and even protect against missile attacks.

Onboard lasers have a number of advantages over traditional weapons. They provide almost instant destruction of targets, do not require ammunition and can be used repeatedly. In addition, laser weapons reduce the risk of collateral damage, as they allow precise focus on specific objects.

For the US Air Force and Marine Corps, the introduction of this technology will be an important step in modernizing their fleet. Drones with laser weapons will be able to perform tasks that were previously unavailable for standard weapons systems.

The development of airborne laser weapons for the MQ-9 reflects the United States' desire to maintain technological leadership in the field of weapons. In the face of the growing threat from drones and other high-tech enemy assets, lasers are becoming a key element of modern defense.

The successful implementation of the program could set a precedent for equipping other types of aircraft, including fighter jets and transport aircraft, with laser weapons. It also demonstrates the Pentagon's willingness to invest in innovative solutions to counter future threats.

Despite the promising prospects, the program faces a number of technical and financial challenges. The main issues remain the energy efficiency of lasers, their weight, and their ability to operate in various weather conditions. However, the success of General Atomics in developing similar systems such as HELIOS (High-Energy Laser with Integrated Optical dazzler and Surveillance) is encouraging.

The completion of the program and the start of deliveries of laser weapons for the MQ-9 is expected in the coming years. This event may become a turning point in the development of unmanned technologies and change the rules of modern warfare.

France introduces the HELMA-LP portable laser system: the weapon of the future in the assault rifle form factor

HELMA-LP Portable laser system

The French defense company CILAS has presented an innovative development, the HELMA-LP portable laser system, made in the form factor of an assault rifle. The prototype was first demonstrated at SOFINS 2025, where it aroused considerable interest among experts in the field of military technology. The new system is a lightweight version of the HELMA-P, which was successfully tested in June 2023 aboard the Horizon-class air defense frigate.

The HELMA-LP is designed to engage stationary targets at ranges from 300 to 500 meters. Unlike the more powerful HELMA-P, the new system has reduced power, making it easier and more convenient for infantry use. However, this also affects the time to hit the target: the operator needs to hold the laser on the object for five to fifteen seconds, and the maximum continuous operation time of the system is 60 seconds.

The main advantage of the HELMA-LP is its compactness and mobility. The system can be easily carried by one person, making it ideal for use in the field. It is especially effective against small stationary objects such as drones, electronics, or lightweight structures.

However, the reduction in power compared to HELMA-P imposes certain limitations. A longer guidance time requires high operator accuracy and stability, which can be difficult in an active combat environment. In addition, the system is not yet designed to hit moving targets, which limits its versatility.

The first tests of the HELMA-LP showed its potential as an innovative solution for modern warfare. Such a system is especially relevant in the context of the growing threat from drones, which are becoming more common on the battlefield. CILAS continues to work on improving the system's performance, including increasing power and reducing target engagement time.

HELMA-LP is another step in the development of laser weapons, which is gradually becoming a reality. France is demonstrating leadership in this field by offering advanced technologies to the armed forces. The success of HELMA-LP may become an impetus for the development of similar systems by other countries, which will lead to a new arms race in the field of energy weapons.

General Atomics introduces new laser for MQ-9B

 General Atomics is moving forward with the introduction of several new technologies at Sea Air Space 2025, including the new MQ-9B outboard laser system, which was first introduced.

The new onboard laser module, presented in detail at the Sea Air Space exhibition, is positioned as a solution to protect the fleet from unilateral attacking drones. This capability differs from previous efforts by the Ministry of Defense to install lasers on aircraft.

The new laser is part of the General Atomics Laser Weapon Systems portfolio, centered around the scalable High Energy Laser (HEL) Weapon System. The laser belongs to the 25 kW class and can be scaled up to 300 kW in both pulsed and continuous wave systems capable of operating under any conditions.

MQ-9B with onboard laser

HII has been selected to develop a high-energy laser weapon system for the US Army

 The American defense contractor HII has been selected by the U.S. Army's Office of Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies (RCCTO) to develop a high-energy laser (HEL) weapon system. The system, based on an open architecture, will be able to detect, track and neutralize unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) of groups 1-3 in multi-domain operations.

The HEL system is designed for both stationary defense and integration into military vehicles, which increases its operational flexibility. It aims to support force protection by countering drone threats with a scalable and sustainable solution.

The US Navy is stepping up the use of AI to combat drones with laser weapons

In today's world of technology and military innovation, the US Navy continues to strengthen its position in the field of protection against new types of threats, such as autonomous unmanned systems (UAS). One of the most promising areas is the development of laser weapon systems (LWS), which are complemented by artificial intelligence (AI) to increase efficiency. This makes it possible to counter the rapidly evolving threat from small but highly efficient drones.

The process of using laser weapons against drones is as follows: when the radar detects the signature of an approaching UAS, it automatically transmits the data to the LWS system. After that, the operator turns on the infrared sensor, which begins to track the movement of the drone. To maintain accurate fixation, a special component of the system is used — a telescope capable of providing stable target acquisition even at considerable distances.

However, the key step is to classify the threat. The operator must determine whether the object is really dangerous by comparing its characteristics with a database of known drones and their capabilities. This is where artificial intelligence plays a crucial role, offering instant recommendations on classification and suggestions for further action.

The main difficulty lies in the fact that modern drones can vary in size, function, and purpose. Some of them perform reconnaissance tasks, others carry combat loads, and still others can be completely civilian. The human factor in the decision-making process can slow down the reaction or lead to mistakes. That is why the introduction of AI is becoming a critical step.

Artificial intelligence analyzes huge amounts of data, including historical examples of encounters with similar drones, their behavior and tactics of use. Based on this information, the system helps the operator make decisions faster, reducing the risk of errors and increasing the overall efficiency of the system.

Lasers have a number of obvious advantages over traditional air defense systems.:

1. Unlimited Ammo: Laser weapons do not require bullets or missiles, making them an almost endless source of protection.

2. High Precision: Lasers are capable of accurately hitting targets without the risk of collateral damage to the environment or innocent objects.

3. Cost-effectiveness: Although the initial cost of building the system is high, the operating costs are significantly lower than those of traditional air defense systems.

4. Reaction Speed: Lasers travel at the speed of light, allowing them to react instantly to moving targets.

Despite the many advantages, there are also technical and organizational challenges faced by developers.:

- Atmospheric interference: Fog, rain, or sandstorms may affect the effectiveness of the laser beam.

-Development of defensive technologies: Opponents may start using new materials or technologies that make drones more resistant to laser attacks.

- Ethics of using AI: Automation of the decision-making process raises ethical questions, especially if the system gets the right to open fire on its own.

The introduction of artificial intelligence into the US Navy's laser weapon system demonstrates the military's commitment to adapting advanced technologies to protect against modern threats. The combination of precision, cost-effectiveness, and automation makes such systems a powerful tool in the face of evolving aerial threats. However, for successful implementation, it is necessary to overcome technical limitations and develop a clear ethical framework for the use of such technologies.

Thus, the future of countering drones is seen as increasingly digital and automated, where a person will play the role of a controller, rather than the main performer.