Overview
- Lockheed Martin disclosed the 2025 counter-UAS demonstration in its latest financial update, with CEO Jim Taiclet highlighting missile conservation benefits.
- The HELIOS system is a roughly 60-kilowatt laser integrated with the ship’s Aegis Combat System and is designed for both sensor dazzling and destructive effects.
- USS Preble neutralized four drones during the Navy-run exercise, marking a step beyond earlier single-target trials reported in prior testing.
- The Navy has not released engagement specifics, including ranges, timelines, target profiles, or environmental conditions.
- Preble remains the only U.S. destroyer equipped with HELIOS, as other Arleigh Burke-class ships field the lower-powered ODIN for sensor disruption.