U.S. defense company AeroVironment (AV) has released new video footage demonstrating the counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) capabilities of its LOCUST directed energy weapon.
No missile. No ammunition. Just a high-energy laser defeating a drone at the speed of light. pic.twitter.com/pTc5Gboi0n
— AV (@aerovironment) September 4, 2026
According to a statement from the company, the newly shared footage highlights the laser system’s operational performance against aerial targets. The company also detailed the latest evolution of the platform, designated as LOCUST X3. This updated variant incorporates enhanced power output, increased modularity, and an artificial intelligence-driven targeting system known as AV_Halo. The company noted that the LOCUST X3 functions as a key effector within its broader Halo_Shield air defense architecture.
The LOCUST system has previously undergone a series of operational evaluations. AeroVironment stated that the directed energy system was successfully demonstrated aboard the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush.
Furthermore, the system was validated during joint testing with Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401) at the White Sands Missile Range. According to the company, the data gathered from the White Sands demonstration was used to inform coordination between the U.S. Department of Defense and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding the safe operational use of laser weapon systems in domestic airspace.