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AV awarded $464.8 million U.S. Army contract for laser counter-drone systems

AeroVironment has been awarded a $464.8 million contract by the U.S. Army Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Fires program office for the Enduring-High Energy Laser (E-HEL) program.

The September 2 announcement marks the transition of AeroVironment’s LOCUST X3 directed-energy system from prototype development to production. The company described the award as the first production contract for directed-energy systems in U.S. history.

Under the Other Transaction Agreement, AeroVironment will deliver dozens of LOCUST X3 laser weapon systems over the next several years to support the Army’s multi-year fielding requirements. The systems are intended to strengthen layered air defense against Group 1-3 unmanned aircraft systems.