BlueHalo has been awarded a $45.7M base prototype Other Transaction Authority (with $30.2M in options) by the U.S. Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) for the development of the Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) system. Drawing on their extensive experience in directed energy and optical targeting and tracking systems, as well as the recent success of their Laser Weapon Systems (LWS) LOCUST, BlueHalo will design a 20-kilowatt class laser weapon system that will be mounted on an Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV). The AMP-HEL system is aimed at countering the growing threat of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) on the battlefield, providing enhanced overmatch capabilities to protect Division and Brigade Combat Teams.
“BlueHalo prides itself on being the protective ring around our forces. The AMP-HEL system will deliver a paradigm-changing capability to our military, providing highly maneuverable protection for our warfighters on the ground so that they can achieve mission success and return home safely,” said Jonathan Moneymaker, BlueHalo Chief Executive Officer. “AMP-HEL is the next instantiation of BlueHalo’s proven LWS expertise. Our LOCUST LWS has successfully engaged and defeated numerous drone threats across a wide variety of background, clutter, slant range, and threat conditions. BlueHalo is honored to work alongside RCCTO as we continue to build an enduring platform, develop capabilities to address near-peer and asymmetric threats faced by our nation, and solidify our position as a leader in the Counter-UAS market and a proven alternative prime for our customers.”
Last year, BlueHalo provided its LOCUST laser system to the RCCTO for integration into the Palletized High Energy Laser (P-HEL) prototype, marking the initial deployment of the first operational High Energy Laser (HEL) Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-sUAS) capability overseas. The LOCUST laser system harnesses precision optical and laser hardware, as well as sophisticated software, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) algorithms, and processing to enable and bolster the directed energy “kill chain.” This kill chain includes tracking, identifying, and engaging a diverse array of targets with its hard-kill HEL.
“AMP-HEL marks another historic step for the deployment of more HEL systems and the modernization of our national defense capabilities,” said Trip Ferguson, BlueHalo Chief Operating Officer. “Through our layered defense solutions like LOCUST, BlueHalo continues to meet the toughest challenges with soldier-centered technology and inspired engineering–safeguarding our warfighters and nation.” (Press Release)
