Lockheed Martin delivers integrated multi-mission laser weapon system to U.S. Navy

22 Aug 2022

60-plus kW-class high energy laser with integrated optical-dazzler and surveillance (HELIOS).

Lockheed Martin has this week announced it has delivered to the U.S. Navy a 60+ kW-class high energy laser with integrated optical-dazzler and surveillance (HELIOS). It is said to be the first tactical laser weapon system to be integrated into existing ships and provide directed energy capability to the U.S. fleet, headquartered in San Diego, California.

Integrated and scalable by design, the multi-mission HELIOS system is specified to provide tactically relevant laser weapon system warfighting capability as a key element of a layered defense architecture.

‘Disruptive laser weapon’

“Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Navy share a common vision and enthusiasm for developing and providing disruptive laser weapon systems,” commented Rick Cordaro, vice president, Lockheed Martin Advanced Product Solutions.

“HELIOS enhances the overall combat system effectiveness of the ship to deter future threats and provide additional protection for sailors, and we understand we must provide scalable solutions customized to the Navy’s priorities. It represents a solid foundation for incremental delivery of robust and powerful laser weapon system capabilities.”

HELIOS is further described as “a transformational new weapon system providing an additional layer of protection for the fleet with its deep magazine, low-cost per kill, speed of light delivery and precision response.”

Based in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 114,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.