Washington — Leonardo DRS has received a subcontract from AeroVironment to support the integration of mobile laser weapons under the U.S. Army’s Enduring-High Energy Laser (E-HEL) program. The effort marks the Army’s first production program for a high-energy laser weapon, aimed at providing an affordable defense against drones.
30-kW LOCUST X3 Laser System
The program centers on AeroVironment’s 30-kilowatt LOCUST X3, designed to track and defeat Group 1 through 3 unmanned aircraft. Leonardo DRS will provide vehicle integration, power management, and thermal control expertise.
The system is designed for the Army’s Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), with stationary palletized configurations also available. Integration on the Infantry Squad Vehicle has also been examined.
LOCUST X3 uses spectral beam combining and AeroVironment’s AV_Halo software for detection, tracking, and targeting. Its cost per shot is reported to be less than $5, while its power supply allows the system to replenish its firing capacity without conventional ammunition.
$464.8 Million Army Production Contract
On September 2, 2026, the U.S. Army awarded AeroVironment an Other Transaction Agreement worth nearly $464.8 million for E-HEL. The contract covers delivery of dozens of LOCUST X3 systems over the next several years, along with training and support.
The program builds on earlier Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser prototyping efforts involving previous LOCUST systems.
Previous Partnership and Manufacturing Expansion
Leonardo DRS and AeroVironment worked together in 2024 and 2025 to integrate a counter-drone laser onto an armored vehicle. Leonardo DRS provided vehicle integration, power, thermal management, and systems-engineering support for U.S. government live-fire evaluations and training.
John Baylouny, president and CEO of Leonardo DRS, said the Army’s move into production reflects the growing importance of scalable directed-energy capabilities against evolving drone threats.
Aaron Hankins, vice president and general manager of Leonardo DRS Land Systems, said the company is applying its experience in vehicle integration, power, and thermal management to deliver a mobile laser capability for the Army. He highlighted the need for reliable systems in demanding environments.
AeroVironment is expanding production capacity at its Albuquerque, New Mexico, facility following a $30 million investment announced earlier in 2026. The company plans to produce dozens of LOCUST X3 systems annually over the next few years to meet military demand.
The selection of Leonardo DRS for the integration work was announced on November 2, 2026.
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