US Navy tests powerful laser weapon to destroy drone from USS Preble

interestingengineering.com — February 4, 2025, 02:00 PM UTC

The U.S. Navy has successfully tested its High-Energy Laser with an Integrated Optical Dazzler and Surveillance (HELIOS) system, destroying a drone from the USS Preble. This test aimed to validate the system's performance and capabilities. HELIOS, installed in 2022, replaces a traditional weapon and can engage aerial targets up to 5 miles away. It also features sensors for intelligence and surveillance. The system is cost-effective, with each shot costing only a few cents. The Navy plans to integrate HELIOS with its Aegis Combat System, enhancing its operational use. While promising, the technology currently faces limitations, such as targeting only one object at a time. Future developments may improve its capabilities.

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Timeline:

[4.1]
US Navy tests HELIOS laser weapon for drone defense on USS Preble (firstpost.com)
16d 0h
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[4.0]
U.S. Navy showcases laser weapon test on USS Preble in new report (cbsnews.com)
16d 16h
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[3.5]
US reveals HELIOS laser system to enhance drone defense on warships (india.com)
16d 20h
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[4.3]
US Navy tests Helios laser weapon against drone from USS Preble (economictimes.indiatimes.com)
16d 21h
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[4.1]
US Navy tests powerful laser weapon to destroy drone from USS Preble (interestingengineering.com)
17d 2h
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[4.0]
US destroyer tests laser weapon system in Western Pacific (newsweek.com)
17d 6h
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[3.6]
US Navy tests new laser weapon system on destroyer to counter emerging threats (express.co.uk)
17d 7h
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[3.3]
US Navy deploys Lockheed Martin's HELIOS laser weapon aboard USS Preble (zerohedge.com)
17d 13h
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