The Future of Naval Defense is Here - Helios Laser System

The *Helios Laser Weapon System* (High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical-dazzler and Surveillance) is an advanced directed energy weapon developed by *Lockheed Martin* for the **U.S. Navy**. It is designed to provide a powerful, ship-mounted laser system capable of **defense against drones, small boats, and incoming missiles**, while also integrating surveillance and counter-optical capabilities.
*Key Features:*
1. *High-Energy Laser (HEL) System*
Uses a *60+ kilowatt-class laser* capable of disabling or destroying enemy threats.
Scalable power output for different engagement scenarios.
Can target UAVs (drones), fast attack craft, and potentially incoming missiles.
2. *Integrated Optical-Dazzler*
Functions as a *non-lethal deterrent* by blinding or disrupting enemy sensors and optical systems.
Useful against surveillance drones and intelligence-gathering equipment.
3. *Surveillance & Targeting System*
Incorporates *advanced sensors* for tracking, targeting, and engagement.
Works in conjunction with naval radar and defense networks.
4. *Ship-Based Deployment*
Designed to be installed on *Arleigh Burke-class destroyers* and other naval vessels.
Works alongside existing kinetic defense systems like the **Aegis Combat System**.
5. *Cost Efficiency & Logistics*
*Reduces the cost per shot* compared to traditional missiles (pennies per shot vs. hundreds of thousands of dollars per missile).
*Unlimited ammunition* as long as the ship's power supply can sustain it.
Decreases reliance on missile stocks in prolonged engagements.
*Operational Capabilities:*
Provides a *layered defense system* for naval vessels.
Can *track, dazzle, disable, or destroy* enemy assets depending on the situation.
Enhances fleet survivability by *neutralizing threats before they reach* the ship.
*Deployment & Testing:*
First installed on the *USS Preble (DDG-88)* in 2022.
Undergoing continued evaluation for effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
A critical step toward the U.S. Navy's broader **directed energy weapons strategy**.
*Significance:*
The *Helios* system represents a major shift in naval warfare, reducing dependence on conventional weapons while increasing *flexibility, endurance, and cost-effectiveness**. Its ability to **instantly engage multiple threats* without resupply makes it a revolutionary asset for modern naval combat.
Would you like comparisons with other laser weapon systems, such as the *LaWS* or **Iron Beam**?

[@StockShorts-e7d]

Wonder if this could add to Lockheed Martin stock???