Laser System Demonstrates Successful Anti-Drone Capabilities

Laser System Demonstrates Successful Anti-Drone Capabilities

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Large unmanned aircraft systems constitute a challenge to military forces. Laser systems are one of the methods to fight them. The US Department of Defense (DoD) has increased its laser capability and reliability. The first batch of previously deployed Compact Laser Weapon System (CLWS) units have been upgraded and delivered by Boeing. The upgraded units will provide warfighters with enhanced protection against larger and more numerous hostile unmanned aircraft systems, and enable them to defeat threats more quickly and efficiently.

CLWS is a modular, high energy laser system that provides proven air defense capabilities against unmanned aircraft systems. Its versatile design enables it to be transported and operated by a single warfighter and configured for mobile use on an array of combat vehicles – providing superior flexibility to support readiness in any environment.

Currently deployed in theater with a track record of more than 300 drones defeated in dozens of demonstrations, scenarios and environments – CLWS is combat-ready today, according to the company’s website.

The system continues to prove its combat-readiness for current and prospective DoD customers in an array of exercises. During a recent live fire drill in Yuma, Arizona, DoD trainees successfully defeated 12 out of 12 threats while operating a CLWS unit. 

Recently, during a field test of the U.S. Air Force’s Advanced Battle Management System, CLWS successfully defended a force protection convoy against unmanned aircraft systems while mounted on a small utility task vehicle, according to uasvision.com.