Hardware1 hOctober 22, 2026, 07:10

US Army awards AeroVironment $464.8M for modular LOCUST X3 laser

AeroVironment won a $464.8 million Army award for its 30-kilowatt LOCUST X3 laser, mounted on a detachable frame that moves between ordinary military trucks. The system downs Group 1–3 drones at $5–10 per shot, with first units expected in early 2028.

TechRadar

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US Army awards AeroVironment $464.8M for modular LOCUST X3 laser

Output is 20–35 kW, with in-house Halo Pinpoint AI handling tracking
Each engagement costs under $10, with a 2026 report citing $5
Battery power allows 80–120 seconds of firing before reload
Contract is worth $464.8M; first international order tops $50M

#AeroVironment#LOCUST#NLIGHT

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