The U.S. Army has taken a significant step to enhance its counter-unmanned aerial system capabilities by formally requesting industry proposals for high-energy laser systems. These systems aim to effectively neutralize small- to medium-sized drones, addressing growing concerns over drone threats on the battlefield.
In a request for information issued late last week, the Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) outlined its need for solutions under the Enduring-High Energy Laser (E-HEL) program. This initiative marks the Army’s first program of record dedicated to a new family of high-energy lasers. The RCCTO aims to acquire 20 E-HEL systems through a modular open systems approach, with plans to initiate contracts in the second quarter of fiscal year 2026 or later.
The Army emphasizes that the E-HEL systems must protect “semi fixed” and maneuver forces from various drone classifications, specifically Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3 “one way attack” drones. Requirements include the capability to mount these systems on Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTV) and deploy them as “palletized” units that are transportable by ground and compatible with C-17 aircraft.
To qualify, interested vendors must demonstrate proven expertise in producing sophisticated laser weapon system components, alongside strong configuration management and quality controls. According to the RFI, vendors lacking recent government-witnessed test data must showcase their solutions to the Directed Energy Project Office (DEPO), a division under RCCTO. Demonstrations are scheduled to occur at the Dugway Proving Ground in Utah from December 8-19 and January 5-30.
The RFI outlines that DEPO will evaluate critical attributes such as fluence, tracker performance, engagement track range, and laser quality. This assessment aims to determine whether systems that do not achieve a hard kill on Group 3 unmanned aerial systems (UAS) can potentially scale to be lethal against Group 3 one-way attack drones.
While the RFI does not guarantee contract awards, it signifies the Pentagon’s commitment to advancing directed energy weapons. This technology has long been viewed as a potentially cost-effective solution for countering drone threats. Yet, the Defense Department faces ongoing challenges in transitioning these innovations from initial development stages to operational deployment.
The Army’s proactive approach in seeking industry collaboration underscores the urgency of enhancing its defensive capabilities against evolving aerial threats. As drone technology continues to advance, the demand for effective countermeasures has never been more critical.
