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US Navy Transforms Naval Protection with Helios Laser's Power on USS Preble at Sea.


In its 2024 report, the U.S. Office of the Director, Operational Test & Evaluation released an image of the USS Preble (DDG-88) deploying its HELIOS laser weapon system at sea. This image, one of the clearest in recent years, highlights the growing importance of this technology in Washington’s strategic vision. The HELIOS system (High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical-dazzler and Surveillance) marks a significant transition from theoretically directed energy weapons to their concrete and operational application on the battlefield.

The U.S. Navy’s Center for Countermeasures (CCM) supervised demonstrations in which the system successfully engaged unmanned aerial targets, validating its functional and operational performance (Picture source: US Navy)


Developed by Lockheed Martin, HELIOS reflects the U.S. Navy’s commitment to integrating directed energy weapons into its fleet to enhance defense capabilities against modern threats. This system combines a high-energy laser, an optical dazzler, and an advanced surveillance capability, providing a layered defense approach that allows targets to be physically neutralized and their sensors disrupted. The Navy aims to counter threats such as drones, fast attack craft, and potentially short-range missiles.

The HELIOS program was initiated in 2018 with an initial $150 million contract awarded to Lockheed Martin for development, manufacturing, and delivery of two systems—one for land-based testing and another for naval integration. After successfully passing its Critical Design Review in 2020, sea trials began in 2021 at Wallops Island, Virginia. The USS Preble was the first Arleigh Burke-class destroyer to be equipped with the system, marking a key milestone in the adoption of directed energy weapons within the U.S. Navy.

HELIOS operates at an initial power of 60 kilowatts, with the potential to scale up to 120 kilowatts depending on operational needs. Unlike conventional ammunition-based systems, this laser weapon provides a key operational advantage: virtually unlimited firing capacity as long as power is available. This reduces logistical constraints related to ammunition resupply and extends the ship’s operational endurance, particularly in scenarios where resupply options may be limited.

Beyond its destructive capability, the system includes an optical dazzler designed to temporarily blind or disable enemy surveillance sensors, adding a strategic advantage in reconnaissance and counter-reconnaissance operations. Its integration with the Aegis combat system allows for seamless coordination with other defensive measures, enhancing overall combat effectiveness.

HELIOS has undergone rigorous testing. The U.S. Navy’s Center for Countermeasures (CCM) supervised demonstrations in which the system successfully engaged unmanned aerial targets, validating its functional and operational performance. In FY24, CCM conducted 32 test events to evaluate airborne countermeasures, counter-unmanned aircraft systems, and the development and assessment of directed energy weapons as potential countermeasures. Additionally, CCM partnered with allied forces to advance the development and testing of infrared and radio frequency countermeasures.

The integration of HELIOS aboard the USS Preble is only the first step. The U.S. Navy plans to expand the use of directed energy weapons to other vessels, including more powerful systems such as the 150-kilowatt Laser Weapon System Demonstrator (LWSD), already deployed on select ships. This expansion aligns with a broader military strategy aimed at developing cost-effective defense solutions tailored to evolving asymmetric threats.

The HELIOS system is designed to protect naval assets from various threats, including drones, fast attack craft, and cruise missiles. It combines a high-energy laser capable of physically destroying targets with an optical dazzler to disrupt or disable enemy sensors. Additionally, it provides advanced surveillance and intelligence capabilities, enhancing situational awareness for operators.

Among its competitors, the Israeli-developed "Iron Beam" system is designed to intercept drones, rockets, and mortar shells at a lower cost per engagement. Similarly, South Korea recently introduced the "Block-I" system, a 100-kilowatt laser weapon designed to counter drones and other aerial threats. Other nations, including China, Russia, and Germany, are also investing in this technology, highlighting the growing global competition in directed energy-based defense systems.


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