AeroVironment equips U.S. Army Infantry Squad Vehicle with new mobile counter-drone laser weapon.

According to information published by the U.S. company AeroVironment on September 3, 2025, the first two mobile Laser Weapon Systems (LWS) for counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) missions have been successfully delivered to the U.S. Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO). Developed under the U.S. Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) prototyping effort, these systems are built around AeroVironment’s 20kW-class LOCUST laser integrated on the General Motors Defense Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV). The result is a lightweight, maneuverable, and combat-ready platform designed to provide mobile force protection against airborne threats, particularly drones.
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The U.S. Army Infantry Squad Vehicle is integrated with AeroVironment’s 20kW-class LOCUST laser weapon system, part of the Army Multi-Purpose High-Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) program, to provide lightweight, mobile counter-drone capability for frontline units. (Picture source: AeroVironment)

The AeroVironment LOCUST laser is a high-energy directed energy system engineered to neutralize Class I and Class II unmanned aerial systems with precision and speed. Mounted on the ISV (Infantry Squad Vehicle), a platform specifically designed for airborne deployment and infantry squad mobility, the system allows frontline units to operate with an organic counter-drone capability without relying on fixed-site defenses or heavier support vehicles. This integration reflects the Army’s strategic focus on deploying scalable and mobile high-energy laser solutions capable of operating in contested, austere environments.

The AMP-HEL (Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser) prototypes underwent a complete government acceptance test process at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona. The systems were evaluated across parameters including engagement performance, power management, platform mobility, safety protocols, and kill-chain integration. Following these assessments, the systems were sent to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where soldiers completed new equipment training, preparing for the operational deployment of directed energy weapons.

The technical configuration of the AMP-HEL system combines the LOCUST 20kW laser with advanced beam control optics and stabilized targeting systems. These components work in concert with a high-speed gimbal and precision tracking software that enables the system to acquire, lock, and neutralize fast-moving aerial targets in real time. The laser weapon provides an effective, low-cost-per-shot solution for threats that traditionally require expensive missile interceptors or complex jamming systems.

From a combat value perspective, the AMP-HEL system offers several critical advantages. It provides a virtually unlimited magazine capacity limited only by available power, significantly reducing logistical constraints. Its silent and invisible engagement capability makes it ideal for operations in noise-sensitive or stealth-dependent missions. The absence of kinetic projectiles reduces risk of collateral damage, which is especially important in urban or densely populated operational areas.

AeroVironment’s mobile directed energy solution is a key element of the U.S. Army’s effort to establish a layered and modular air defense architecture. The use of the ISV as the base platform ensures that laser systems can be deployed in light infantry formations, airborne units, and special operations forces without hindering their mobility or rapid deployment timelines. This gives the Army a direct-fire, non-kinetic C-UAS weapon that can maneuver alongside frontline troops and defend them in real-time against commercial drones, improvised aerial threats, and potential loitering munitions.

The Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV) is a light tactical all-terrain platform developed by General Motors Defense and selected by the U.S. Army to enhance the mobility of Infantry Brigade Combat Teams (IBCTs). Designed to carry a nine-soldier squad with full combat gear, the ISV is based on the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 chassis and incorporates 90 percent commercial off-the-shelf components. Its lightweight construction and compact profile allow it to be internally transportable by CH-47 Chinook helicopters and sling-load capable under UH-60 Black Hawks, giving commanders a high degree of operational flexibility.

From a military standpoint, the ISV offers a unique combination of rapid deployment capability, mobility across diverse terrain, and compatibility with air assault operations. These attributes make it an ideal platform for mounting a mobile laser weapon system like LOCUST. Its off-road performance and reduced logistical footprint mean the system can accompany dismounted units across complex battlefields, enabling force protection in areas where traditional air defense assets cannot reach. Moreover, using a vehicle already integrated into infantry formations eliminates the need to introduce new logistics or maintenance burdens, accelerating the fielding of the AMP-HEL capability.

The AMP-HEL program is also paving the way for future capability expansions. AeroVironment is set to deliver two additional systems next month built on the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) platform. These next-generation prototypes will include the LOCUST laser integrated with onboard radar and command-and-control systems, enabling autonomous or semi-autonomous engagement workflows and greater situational awareness.

As drone threats continue to evolve, with increased autonomy, swarming capability, and payload diversity, the need for rapid, precise, and cost-effective countermeasures is growing. High-energy laser systems like LOCUST are positioned to play a central role in this mission space by providing direct, scalable lethality without the logistical and financial overhead of traditional intercept systems.

The delivery of the first AMP-HEL (Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser) prototypes to the U.S. Army marks a significant milestone in transitioning directed energy from development to deployment. With its mobile laser systems now fielded and tested, AeroVironment has positioned itself as a critical partner in advancing the Army’s modernization objectives and building combat systems designed for the threats of today and tomorrow.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.