Types of drones simulating cruise missiles were successfully shot down by the Layered Laser Defense (LLD) system of the U.S. Navy during tests conducted in February this year, with results announced on April 13.
Designed and built by defense contractor Lockheed Martin, the LLD system is expected to be deployed on various warships and bases. This system utilizes high-resolution telescopes to track threats, allowing LLD to target fast naval vessels and unmanned aerial systems, which are currently the latest threats in warfare.
A drone hit by a laser beam during the test, with its front burned, creating an orange flame burst.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has been researching laser weapon systems since the 1980s. Back then, lasers were used with chemical technology, and logistical challenges made their deployment difficult.
ONR continues to advance laser defense systems, with advancements in laser technology enabling them to test a fully electric laser weapon system that does not rely on propellants or explosives typically used in naval weapon systems.
The electric laser beam is not only safer for the ship and personnel onboard, but it can also maintain operation as long as the ship has power. Theoretically, this system has an almost limitless ammunition supply as long as there is energy available.
The cost per shot is relatively low, as this system only uses the available power of the warship. Previous laser weapons tested on U.S. warships have been reported to cost only $1 per shot.
Laser beam targeting a drone.
LLD is compact, powerful, and more efficient than previously tested systems, featuring specialized lenses for target observation and focusing the laser beam for maximum effectiveness. The system also employs artificial intelligence to enhance tracking and targeting capabilities.
In recent tests conducted at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, LLD successfully shot down a series of targets, including quadcopters and high-speed drones, simulating subsonic cruise missiles.
Illustration of a high-power laser beam attacking a target.
Currently, the U.S. Navy has no plans to deploy LLD into active combat.
