US Army's 400 Million Laser Deal Accelerates Race To Harden Bases From Kamikaze Swarms
Building on our investment theme that the US military is racing to harden its bases with counter-drone systems capable of defeating Group 1-3 drones, and potentially Group 4 threats, Bloomberg reported late in Friday's US cash session that the Army plans to purchase at least $400 million of AeroVironment's counter-drone laser systems, citing a person familiar with the deal.
The source told the outlet that the deal would provide the Army with dozens of LOCUST systems, which use artificial intelligence to track and identify small and medium-sized drones before human operators engage them with a high-energy laser.
AeroVironment's LOCUST system was originally developed by BlueHalo, which the defense firm acquired for about $4.1 billion in 2025. The latest LOCUST X3 uses a scalable 20-to-35-plus-kilowatt laser, AI-enabled detection and tracking software, and precision beam control to defeat Group 1-3 drones.
LOCUST can be deployed at fixed installations, including military bases, or mounted on tactical vehicles such as the Infantry Squad Vehicle and Joint Light Tactical Vehicle.
The economics of laser weapons are almost certainly a major focus among military planners. At roughly $5 per shot, compared with a $100,000 rocket or a million-dollar interceptor missile, lasers offer one of the most cost-effective ways to defeat Group 1-3 drones.
Drone Groupings (via Piper Sandler)
The report sent AeroVironment's stock soaring nearly 8% during the final hour of Friday's US cash session. The shares have been cut in half since late 2025 but recently found support near the $140 level.
More broadly, the Goldman Sachs US Defense equity basket (GSXUDFNS) is also reversing higher after a five-month slump.
How to profit:
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- • The US Army plans to spend at least $400 million on AeroVironment's LOCUST counter-drone laser systems.
- • These AI-enabled lasers provide a cost-effective defense against Group 1-3 drone swarms at roughly $5 per shot.
- • This marks the Pentagon's first production contract for directed-energy weapons beyond the prototype stage.
The military is shifting from expensive missile interceptors to high-energy lasers to counter the proliferation of cheap, asymmetric drone threats. This move follows the acquisition of BlueHalo by AeroVironment to scale advanced directed-energy technology.
Christian Perspective
Defending the nation and its people is a righteous endeavor that aligns with the biblical mandate for protectors to guard the community. Utilizing efficient technology to minimize waste and maximize security reflects a responsible stewardship of national resources. Protecting soldiers from cowardly, unmanned attacks preserves the lives of men called to serve.
Implications
Strengthening base security ensures that the men and women defending our borders and interests remain safe from unconventional threats. A secure military infrastructure is essential for maintaining the sovereignty and stability required for Christian families to flourish. Technological superiority prevents the chaos that arises when a nation cannot defend its own territory.
Broader Trends
The rise of drone warfare necessitates a shift toward automated, high-tech defense to counter asymmetric threats from hostile actors. This reflects a broader need for the US to prioritize technological dominance to protect its unique heritage and borders. It also highlights the increasing reliance on artificial intelligence to manage complex security environments.
Takeaway
Support the modernization of our military to ensure the protection of our people and our way of life. Prioritize America First defense policies that emphasize technological self-reliance and cost-effective security. A strong, technologically advanced military is the primary shield for the nation's Christian foundation.
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