A containerized concept for the US Navy’s 60-kilowatt-class HELIOS laser weapon is beginning to take shape as American lawmakers push to expand funding for more mobile directed energy systems.
The proposed architecture would allow the laser system to be deployed across a wider range of vessels, including aircraft carriers, amphibious warfare ships, expeditionary sea bases, sealift vessels, and surface combatants.
The concept could provide an additional layer of close-in defense against drones, fast attack craft, and incoming missiles, while also expanding potential use in fixed-site or shore-based defense roles.
Read the full story on NextGen Defense: Containerized Concept Emerges for US Navy’s 60kW HELIOS Laser Weapon
