AeroVironment Delivers JLTV-Mounted LOCUST Laser Weapon Systems to U.S. Army

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AeroVironment, Inc. (AV), a U.S.-based defense technology company and provider of counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS), has announced the successful delivery of two Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV)-mounted mobile C-UAS Laser Weapon Systems (LWS) to the U.S. Army. This delivery marks the second increment of the Army’s Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) prototype program.

Photo Credit: AeroVironment

The latest systems are integrated onto Oshkosh JLTV platforms and feature the LOCUST LWS with a 20kW class laser. They are equipped with a larger aperture beam director, which enhances lethality performance and overall effectiveness against aerial threats. This follows AeroVironment’s earlier delivery in September of the first increment, consisting of two LOCUST LWS units mounted on General Motors Defense Infantry Squad Vehicles (ISV).

The LOCUST LWS technology offers several advantages. It is modular, efficient, and cost-effective, making it adaptable to different mission requirements. The system has proven its capability to counter unmanned aerial systems in real combat environments. It provides advanced target acquisition, tracking, and precision beam control, enabling soldiers to operate it with ease. Over the past three years, LOCUST has been deployed in overseas operations, demonstrating exceptionally high levels of operational availability.

The LOCUST program began in 2022 when AeroVironment delivered the first units to the Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) under the Palletized-High Energy Laser (P-HEL) initiative. The P-HEL system equipped with LOCUST successfully neutralized UAS threats in combat scenarios, validating its effectiveness. Building on that success, the technology is now being integrated into the AMP-HEL program for further development and expanded operational use.

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