US Navy fires laser weapon from aircraft carrier, destroys drones in ‘historic’ test
Equipment & technology
April 21, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić
The US Navy has tested a high-energy laser weapon aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77), destroying multiple drones in a landmark demonstration.
Credit: AeroVironment
Conducted in October 2025 in partnership with AeroVironment and the US Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office, the live-fire test showcased the palletized LOCUST laser system’s ability to neutralize threats.
During the live-fire event, the palletized high-energy laser (P-HEL) system tracked, engaged, and neutralized multiple target drones.
According to AeroVironment, this achievement validates that the LOCUST LWS is “truly platform-agnostic”, seamlessly transitioning from fixed-site and land-based mobile platforms, such as the joint light tactical vehicle (JLTV) and infantry squad vehicle (ISV), to the dynamic and demanding environment of a maneuvering aircraft carrier.
https://www.navaltoday.com/2026/04/21/us-navy-fires-laser-weapon-from-aircraft-carrier-destroys-drones-in-historic-test/
