Army awards AeroVironment nearly $500M contract for laser weapons

The Army has awarded AeroVironment a historic contract valued at approximately $465 million for laser weapons. This agreement marks the first-ever production contract for directed-energy systems in national history. According to Mary Clum, the Enduring High Energy Laser Program signifies a critical transition of directed energy into the Army's permanent force structure. The initiative extends beyond defeating drones, establishing a long-term operational role for these advanced laser technologies within the military's strategic capabilities.