The US Navy has unveiled breathtaking images showcasing the remarkable capabilities of its state-of-the-art drone-destroying laser weapon for the very first time.
This revolutionary system, known as HELIOS—an acronym for High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical-dazzler and Surveillance—was put to the test aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Preble.
Captivating photographs captured the intense brilliance of the laser beam as it effortlessly dispatched an unmanned aerial vehicle, reducing it to a fiery explosion against the clear blue sky.
Developed by Lockheed Martin in 2021 and delivered to the Navy the following year, HELIOS represents a significant advancement in military technology.
According to Daily Mail, This formidable system harnesses over 60 kilowatts of directed energy, an amount powerful enough to supply electricity to approximately 60 homes, all while firing at the speed of light.
With an impressive range of up to five miles, HELIOS is engineered to neutralize a diverse array of threats, including drones, small boats, and even incoming missiles.
In addition to its destructive capabilities, HELIOS is adept at overwhelming the intelligence and reconnaissance sensors on enemy vessels, rendering them less effective in combat scenarios.
The urgency of such advancements is underscored by a recent increase in threats against America’s naval ships, as foreign nations bolster their arsenals with drones and anti-ship missiles.
A report from the US Naval Institute highlighted the ongoing challenge, stating, “The drone threat has been around for years, but the Navy has yet to prioritize defending against these easily acquired weapons.”
The report pointed out the limitations of sailors’ traditional training, suggesting that expecting them to take down multiple, agile, fast-moving drone targets is a daunting task.
It added that the response time from initial detection to engagement could span several critical minutes—time that may not be available when faced with a swift incoming threat.
Enter HELIOS, which the Navy views as a vital asset in the fight against evolving dangers.
Demonstrated in action on the open ocean, the weapon’s effectiveness was further verified by the US Center for Countermeasures (CCM).
Their report revealed stunning images of the laser beam striking a drone high above the ship, incinerating it in a dramatic burst of flames.
CCM played a pivotal role in supporting the Navy’s demonstration aboard the USS Preble (DDG 88), ensuring the system’s functionality, performance, and capabilities against unmanned aerial vehicle targets were thoroughly validated.
Integrated into the ship’s combat system, HELIOS enhances target detection and tracking capabilities, marking a significant leap forward in naval defense technology.
So how does it deal with clouds in the sky? None of these style weapons have EVER worked.