Directed energy
weapon system
BlueHalo to Create Locust Laser System Prototype Compatible With Marine Corps JLTVs
The U.S. Navy has awarded BlueHalo a contract to develop a prototype laser weapon that can be integrated on the U.S. Marine Corps’ Joint Light Tactical Vehicle.
Under the contract, BlueHalo will modify its Locust Laser Weapon System to fit JLTVs. The platform combines precision optical and laser hardware with artificial intelligence and advanced processing techniques, allowing operators to identify, track, engage and disable targets.
The contract was awarded by the Office of Naval Research and the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division, BlueHalo said.
Locust LWS is a counter-unmanned aerial system weapon that delivers a complete kill chain. It uses broadband detection and defeats targets using a high-energy laser. Other features include electro-optical tracking, radio frequency surveillance, human-machine interface and open systems architecture.
The Navy contract builds on several lines of work BlueHalo has been performing to enhance UAS threat deterrence.
In October, the company introduced a next-generation missile designed to shoot down Group 3 drones and other large aerial threats. The missile is designed to work with existing infrastructure and command and control systems.
In April, BlueHalo secured a potential $75.9 million prototype other transaction authority agreement to provide the U.S. Army with an infantry squad vehicle equipped with the Locust LWS.
Category: Defense and Intelligence
