he United States has unveiled its cutting-edge HELIOS laser weapon system, a highly advanced defense tool designed to neutralize drone threats with precision and efficiency. Recently declassified images show the High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical-Dazzler and Surveillance (HELIOS) system in action, successfully destroying a drone during a test firing from the USS Preble, an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer.
Developed by Lockheed Martin, the HELIOS system represents a significant leap in naval defense technology. Capable of operating at over 60 kilowatts, with potential to scale up to 120 kilowatts, the laser weapon is designed to counter drone attacks, which have become increasingly prevalent in modern warfare. The system also features an integrated optical dazzler to temporarily blind enemy sensors and disrupt surveillance operations.
“HELIOS is a transformative tool for the U.S. Navy,” said a spokesperson for the U.S. Center for Countermeasures (CCM). “It provides a cost-effective solution to the growing threat of drone attacks, ensuring the safety of our warships and critical ground targets.”
The first sea trial of HELIOS took place in 2021 on Wallops Island, Virginia, and the system has since been integrated into the USS Preble, marking the first deployment of such a weapon on a U.S. Navy ship. HELIOS is also the first laser weapon to be fully integrated with the Aegis Combat System, enhancing its ability to track, engage, and neutralize threats with unparalleled efficiency.
One of the most significant advantages of HELIOS is its nearly unlimited firing capability, as long as it has a power source. This feature addresses common logistical challenges faced by warships, such as ammunition shortages and maintenance downtime.
The recent test, showcased in the CCM’s annual report, underscores the U.S. Navy’s commitment to advancing its defensive capabilities in response to evolving global threats. As drone technology becomes more accessible to adversaries, systems like HELIOS will play a crucial role in maintaining strategic superiority.