A palletized LOCUST® laser weapon system developed by AeroVironment was successfully tested aboard the USS George H.W. Bush, demonstrating a flexible “roll-on/roll-off” approach to ship defense. The system was temporarily installed on the flight deck, powered by the ship, and operated by sailors with minimal training.

During a one-day exercise, the laser achieved a 100% success rate against drone targets, highlighting its effectiveness, low cost per shot, and ease of use. The test showed that containerized directed-energy weapons can be rapidly deployed without permanent ship integration, offering a scalable solution for counter-drone defense at sea.