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Xbox Controller Aims Drones: Army's New Laser
9 Sep
Summary
- The LOCUST X3 is a 30-kilowatt laser weapon for drones.
- It is controlled using an Xbox controller for easier targeting.
- The US Army awarded a $465 million contract for this system.
A significant $465 million contract has been awarded by the US Army to AeroVironment, Inc. for its LOCUST X3 anti-drone laser weapon. This 30-kilowatt directed energy system is designed to counter a prevalent threat in modern warfare: "Group 3" drones. These are unmanned aerial vehicles weighing approximately 1,350 pounds, capable of carrying substantial payloads.
The LOCUST X3's innovative design includes an intuitive control system, utilizing an Xbox controller for targeting. This approach aims to make the weapon accessible and easier to operate for military personnel. AeroVironment views the system as crucial for thinning the herd of incoming drone threats, particularly those seen in conflicts involving drones like the Shahed.
This contract represents a landmark achievement, as the LOCUST X3 is the first high-energy laser weapon to receive a production contract in US history. Its fielding signifies a shift from experimentation to enduring military capability, offering a forward-thinking alternative to dwindling interceptor missile supplies.
