U.S. Navy Successfully Tests High-Powered Laser Weapon on USS Preble

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Advancing laser weapon technology for modern naval defense


The U.S. Navy’s guided missile destroyer, USS Preble (DDG-88), successfully tested the high-energy laser weapon system known as HELIOS (High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical-dazzler and Surveillance). This cutting-edge technology, designed by Lockheed Martin, demonstrated its capabilities by neutralizing an airborne drone target.

On February 3 (local time), U.S. military media outlet The War Zone reported that the Department of Defense's (DoD) annual Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT&E) report featured images showing the USS Preble firing its high-energy laser weapon system. While the exact timing and location of the test remain undisclosed, this achievement is seen as a significant step toward deploying laser weapons in real naval combat situations.

HELIOS represents a groundbreaking development in defense technology. It can emit a 60kW laser beam traveling at the speed of light, effectively engaging targets up to 8 kilometers away. The system can perform multiple roles, such as destroying drones, disabling small boats, and disrupting enemy optical sensors. Additionally, HELIOS integrates seamlessly with the Aegis Combat System, allowing automated target engagement. The installation of HELIOS on the USS Preble marks a significant upgrade, replacing the traditional Close-In Weapon System (CIWS).

Lockheed Martin has secured contracts to supply HELIOS to at least one Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, with future plans to increase the system’s power output to 150kW. Alongside HELIOS, the U.S. Navy is actively developing other directed-energy weapons, such as the Optical Dazzling Interdictor (ODIN). While ODIN has lower output compared to HELIOS, it is designed to disrupt enemy sensors and is already deployed on eight Arleigh Burke-class destroyers.

Notably, the USS Portland successfully conducted a laser weapon test in 2021, striking a stationary target in the Gulf of Aden. The Pentagon continues to invest heavily in laser weapon development for ships, aircraft, and ground vehicles, allocating an average of $1 billion (approximately KRW 1.45 trillion) annually.

However, challenges persist. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) highlighted in a 2023 report that operational deployment faces difficulties. Laser weapons can target only one object at a time and require sustained aiming for effectiveness. Additionally, environmental factors, such as adverse weather conditions, can impact performance.

Commander Daryl Caudle of the U.S. Fleet Forces Command recently acknowledged the slow pace of laser weapon development during a symposium. He emphasized the potential benefits of these systems, noting that they offer infinite ammunition when powered by renewable energy and can be recharged repeatedly. Nonetheless, he admitted that they have yet to reach a fully operational state.

This successful test of the HELIOS system marks a pivotal moment in the Navy’s ongoing pursuit of advanced defense technologies, underscoring its commitment to staying ahead of emerging threats on modern battlefields.

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