AeroVironment has released LOCUST X3, the third-generation version of its high-energy laser weapon system, designed to address a range of uncrewed aerial and surface threats.
The third-generation platform incorporates lessons from previously fielded systems and allows rapid, cost-effective targeting of Group 1-3 uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and uncrewed surface vehicles (USV).
The LOCUST X3, recently highlighted on CBS News’ 60 Minutes, delivers engagements at a price point below $5 per shot and supports continuous operation without the “reload limitations” required by traditional defence systems.
AeroVironment chairman, president, and CEO Wahid Nawabi said: “In today’s rapidly evolving battlespace, adversaries are deploying mass drone attacks and saturation tactics that threaten mission success and warfighter survivability.
“With LOCUST X3, we deliver an affordable, scalable solution to outpace and neutralise large-scale aerial threats, safeguard critical infrastructure, and maintain decisive advantage wherever the fight demands.”
The system features a scalable 20–35+ kilowatt laser and a modular beam director.
It uses AI-enabled detection, tracking, and engagement automation through AV_Halo PINPOINT, which is part of AeroVironment’s hardware-agnostic counter-unmanned aircraft system software suite.
LOCUST X3 adheres to the Department of War’s Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) guidelines.
This enables quick upgrades and integration on various platforms, including both static installations and mobile units such as the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) and Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV).
The technology builds on previous iterations that have been deployed in Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) and Palletized High Energy Laser (PHEL) programmes.
AeroVironment space, cyber and directed energy president Mary Clum said: “LOCUST X3 transforms how defenders respond to the challenge of massed drone attacks. Its modular design and advanced AI allow for resilient, adaptive protection of critical assets—on any platform, at the tactical edge or at fixed sites.
“With LOCUST X3, operators can now counter high-volume threats with unmatched speed, precision, and affordability.”
