US Navy seeks to "containerize" laser anti-drone systems for warships

The U.S. Navy is actively pursuing the "containerization" of its laser-based anti-drone systems, a move aimed at rapidly deploying these advanced weapons onto various warships. This strategic development is driven by the growing need to counter the increasing threat posed by unmanned aerial vehicles and inexpensive missiles.

According to foreign military news outlets, the U.S. Congress is considering allocating additional funds to transform the existing High Energy Laser Integrated Optical-dazzler and Surveillance (HELIOS) system into a containerized version. If successful, this innovation could see the system deployed on aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, and other combat vessels, significantly enhancing their capability to neutralize drones and low-cost missiles.

The proposed 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) draft includes a $5 million increase for the HELIOS containerized version and an additional $2.5 million for related "containerized maritime high-energy laser weapon systems." While specific details remain undisclosed, this congressional push signals a strong desire to accelerate the transition of laser weapons from experimental stages to practical fleet deployment.

HELIOS is one of the U.S. Navy's 60-kilowatt class shipboard laser weapon systems, which has demonstrated effectiveness in destroying or damaging targets like drones and small boats. The advantage of a containerized design lies in its flexibility; unlike fixed, integrated systems, containerized weapons require only sufficient deck space, power, and cooling to be installed. This significantly reduces deployment time and allows for broader application across different ship types.

Despite limitations such as environmental interference and relatively short ranges, laser weapons offer a substantial cost advantage over traditional anti-aircraft missiles. With a continuous power supply, their "ammunition capacity" is virtually limitless. U.S. Navy leadership has expressed a desire to shift towards directed energy weapons for short-range defense, emphasizing lasers as a primary option when targets are within visual range.

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As long as the target is within visual range, lasers should be the priority option.