The US Navy has certified the operational service of the new HELIOS (High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical Dazzler and Surveillance) laser weapon system.

In its recent 2024 report, the US Office of Operational Test & Evaluation released details on the directed energy weapon system and the first image from the destroyer USS Preble (DDG-88) utilising the system.

While it’s unclear when the footage below was taken, the images released are among the clearest yet to come to light of this new weapon system, and underscore the growing importance of this technology in the US strategy to counter drones and other systems with lower costs.

The HELIOS system marks a significant transition from theoretical directed-energy weapon systems to their operational application on the battlefield.

The programme began in 2018 with an initial $150 million contract awarded to Lockheed Martin to develop, manufacture and deliver two systems—one for land testing and one for integration into surface units. Sea trials began in 2021, and the USS Preble was the first Arleigh Burke-class destroyer to be equipped with the system.

The US Navy released a new photo of USS Preble (DDG-88) firing her HELIOS laser weapon. 

HELIOS operates with an initial power of 60 kilowatts, with the ability to scale up to 120 kilowatts depending on operational needs.

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Unlike conventional munitions-based systems, this weapon system provides a key operational advantage—virtually unlimited ability to engage targets as long as power is available.

This reduces the logistical constraints associated with munitions resupply and extends the ship’s endurance, particularly in scenarios where resupply options may be limited, such as US Navy ships operating in the Red Sea facing hundreds of Houthi drones.

The said system is also fully integrated with the Aegis combat system, allowing coordination with other defence assets, enhancing overall effectiveness.

The US Navy plans to expand the use of this type of weapon system to other vessels, including more powerful systems such as the 150-kilowatt Laser Weapon System Demonstrator (LWSD) on selected ships.

Also read: Dragon Fire | UK Royal Navy’s laser system delivered 5 years earlier