US Navy Conducts HELIOS Laser Weapon Test to Enhance Naval Capabilities.
Defence
In February 2025, the United States Navy (USN) announced the successful testing of the High-Energy Laser with Integrated Optical Dazzler and Surveillance (HELIOS) system aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Preble (DDG-88) in open waters.
- The test, conducted in 2024, aimed to evaluate the functionality, performance, and effectiveness of the HELIOS system against an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) target.
- According to the United States Department of Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT&E) annual report, the Center for Countermeasures (CCM) assisted the USN by collecting imagery and data to validate the HELIOS system’s capabilities.
Main Point :- (i) The HELIOS system, developed by Lockheed Martin, is a cutting-edge high-powered laser weapon designed to neutralize threats like drones, missiles, and fast attack boats. It features two attack modes: Hard Kill, which destroys targets with high-intensity laser beams, and Soft Kill, which disrupts enemy electronics.
(ii) Using a 60-kilowatt (kW) laser, with upgrade potential to 120-150 kW, HELIOS ensures continuous, cost-effective defense with an unlimited magazine. Its speed-of-light precision, silent operation, and stealth capabilities make it nearly impossible to detect or counter.
(iii) As a key part of the U.S. Navy’s Aegis Combat System, HELIOS strengthens real-time threat response, enhances situational awareness, and fortifies naval defense operations, making it a game-changing weapon in modern warfare.
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