The LOCUST X3 laser weapon system destroyed the Shahed drone for under $5.
AeroVironment Group introduces LOCUST X3, a directed energy laser solution that intercepts suicide drones like the Shahed with superior economic efficiency.
The recently unveiled LOCUST X3 laser weapon system is capable of destroying Shahed-type unmanned aerial vehicles (UAS) in seconds. This is considered a significant step forward in countering threats from mass-produced, inexpensive drones, which are posing a challenge to traditional defense systems due to their extremely low operating costs, under $5 per shot.
Technical specifications and combat capabilities of LOCUST X3
AeroVironment (AV) has developed LOCUST X3 as a third-generation directed energy system optimized for destroying UAS at the speed of light. Compared to its predecessors using 20kW lasers, the X3 boasts upgraded power ranging from 20 to over 35kW. The expanded beam aperture significantly increases the system's range and target destruction efficiency.
In terms of operational targets, LOCUST X3 is capable of targeting UAS types from Group 1 to Group 3. This list includes:
- Small-sized commercial quadcopters.
- Fixed-wing drones can weigh up to 600kg.
- Unmanned surface vessels (USVs).
Economic solutions to counter herd mentality tactics.
Aaron Westman, Senior Business Development Director at AV, emphasized that the LOCUST X3 is designed based on battlefield realities to counter drones such as Iran's Shahed-136 or Russia's Geran-2. These are inexpensive weapons but extremely dangerous when attacking in large numbers (swarms).
From an economic standpoint, using traditional missile systems to intercept drones presents a significant challenge. While a Patriot missile costs around $3 million or an AIM-9X Sidewinder costs $400,000, each Shahed costs only about $20,000. The LOCUST X3 solves this problem at a cost of less than $5 per shot and has no limitations on ammunition quantity as long as there is a power supply.
Control technology and safety
To reduce operator workload, LOCUST X3 integrates AV_Halo PINPOINT software, enabling automatic target detection, tracking, and locking. The system only needs to maintain a focused energy beam on the target for approximately 5-7 seconds to completely disable the drone's structure.
Besides performance, safety is also a priority with its multi-layered command architecture. The system will automatically prevent the laser from firing if it detects a civilian aircraft entering the danger zone. At the same time, the beam is designed to disperse rapidly after the point of convergence, avoiding unintended damage from uncontrolled energy dispersion.
Cross-platform integration capabilities
The LOCUST X3 adheres to the MOSA-standard open architecture of the U.S. Department of Defense, allowing for flexible installation on a variety of combat vehicles or fixed outposts. Real-world testing was conducted at the White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, as part of the U.S. Army's AMP-HEL program.
Currently, AeroVironment has delivered four LOCUST systems to the U.S. Army. Of these, two systems are installed on Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) light armored vehicles and two systems on Infantry Squad Vehicles, ready for missions to protect forces from airborne threats.
