Techterre 2025: HELMA-LP Laser on T1 Hornet Turret Paves Way for Decentralized Anti-Drone Warfare.

In response to the growing threat of drones on the battlefield, CILAS and Arquus have taken a new step with the integration of the HELMA-LP laser system on the T1 HORNET remotely operated turret. This recent development, funded privately, is part of an accelerated experimentation dynamic aimed at providing concrete solutions to ground forces faced with the urgent need for decentralized anti-drone capabilities. The system was officially unveiled at Techterre 2025, mounted on a Sherpa Scout vehicle, demonstrating its suitability for deployment in mobile and operational environments.
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This initiative addresses a widely acknowledged shortcoming within French ground forces: the current anti-drone capabilities remain insufficient and overly centralized, even as the threat intensifies in operational theaters. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The first demonstrations of this hybrid system were conducted a few weeks ago, with firing tests on fixed and mobile targets moving at low speed at a distance of approximately 200 meters. The observed performance is clear: the laser weapon can neutralize drone optics within one second, while full neutralization of the drone is achieved in less than ten seconds. This responsiveness makes it a potentially useful asset for frontline units, which often lack adapted solutions against drone swarms or isolated UAVs.

The HELMA-LP also stands out for its ease of integration onto the T1 HORNET turret. The system is mounted via a Picatinny rail on the main weapon, enabling straightforward installation without major modifications. It is powered by a generator integrated at the rear of the system, removing the need for complex external power supplies. This modular design has ensured compatibility with other components of the turret, including the Galix smoke grenade launcher ring, the FN Herstal 12.7 mm machine gun, and the Echodyne acquisition radar, which contributes to the turret’s automatic alignment, as detailed in recent technical studies.

The Techterre 2025 demonstration relied on the Sherpa Scout platform, a model within the Sherpa family developed by Arquus for reconnaissance, patrol, surveillance, and command missions. This 11-ton 4x4 light vehicle can accommodate up to five crew members. It is compact,  5.43 meters long, 2.36 meters wide, and 2.13 meters high,  and is transportable by C-130 aircraft. Equipped with protection compliant with STANAG 4569 standards, the Sherpa Scout provides a modular and efficient chassis meeting military requirements in terms of mobility, protection, and payload.

The HELMA-LP system originates from the more powerful HELMA-P laser, which was tested by the French Navy and deployed to protect Paris against drones during the 2024 Olympic Games. Designed for tactical portability and close-field operations, the HELMA-LP takes the form of a laser rifle based on the AR-15 platform, connected by two cables to 15 kg backpack housing rechargeable batteries. These batteries provide sufficient power for multiple shots without immediate recharging, allowing continuous laser operation for up to 60 seconds, with typical engagement times between 5 and 15 seconds, adequate to neutralize a target through sustained exposure to the beam.

Initially conceived for discrete, targeted neutralization missions, the HELMA-LP is capable of damaging or destroying electronic sensors, cameras, sighting systems, and optronic equipment via the thermal effect of its laser beam. Its silent and invisible operation enables discreet action, making it particularly suitable for special forces needing to disable sensitive devices without revealing their position. The system operates within a temperature range of -20°C to +35°C and is easily air-transportable.

Although HELMA-LP was not originally designed as an anti-drone weapon, tests conducted on commercial drones such as the DJI Mavic have shown that even a low-power laser beam can damage optical sensors or melt the plastic lenses of onboard cameras. This demonstrates its relevance not only for counter-drone operations but also for remotely neutralizing improvised explosive devices (IEDs), opening doors, or disabling critical enemy infrastructure. This expanded potential is further expressed in the context of integration with remotely operated weapon stations or autonomous ground robots, paving the way for new forms of automated combat.

This initiative addresses a widely acknowledged shortcoming within French ground forces: the current anti-drone capabilities remain insufficient and overly centralized, even as the threat intensifies in operational theaters. It is therefore necessary not to wait for the SCORPION program's timelines or the 2030 capability horizons to equip the forces appropriately. Some recent developments indicate a gradual awareness, exemplified by the emergency equipment plan worth 10 million euros allocated to the 7th Armored Brigade, a reference unit for high-intensity combat. This plan, managed by the Army’s Technical Section (STAT) with the support of public procurement specialists, enabled the launch of sixteen projects and the acquisition of essential equipment within six months: transport keys, radiological and chemical detection drones, improved command post connectivity, and portable electromagnetic jamming systems.

The collaboration between CILAS and Arquus aligns with this industrial and operational responsiveness, offering a credible path toward a generalized anti-drone capability that is no longer the sole domain of ground-to-air artillery specialists. While the development of a fully integrated and robust solution remains ongoing, the HELMA-LP demonstrator on the T1 HORNET turret, mounted on the Sherpa Scout and showcased at Techterre 2025, represents a significant milestone in adapting ground forces to contemporary threats. It sets the stage for a versatile and modular tool, addressing the needs of close protection, discrete electronic warfare, and networked combat in the medium term.