Lockheed Martin will develop four 300 kW IFPC-HEL laser weapon systems to destroy drones, missiles, aircraft and helicopters

Lockheed Martin's laser weapons programme is actively developing. The US defence giant has been awarded a new contract.

Here's What We Know

The US Army has ordered four laser weapon systems from Lockheed Martin. The military service wants 300 kW prototypes as part of the IFPC-HEL (Indirect Fire Protection Capability-High Energy Laser) programme.

The combat laser should provide protection for US Army soldiers against airborne threats including artillery shells, missiles, drones, aeroplanes and helicopters. Lockheed Martin says the IFPC-HEL will offer the military service a fast, effective and manoeuvrable defence.

The US company has several combat lasers in its portfolio. Last summer, it handed over a 60kW HELIOS system to the US Navy. It has already been installed on the USS Preble. The IFPC-HEL for the US Army is based on the HELSI combat laser, the power of which will be increased to 500 kW in the future.

Lockheed Martin has also recently tested the DEIMOS weapon. This laser has a power of only 50 kW. The system is designed to be installed on Stryker armoured vehicles.

Source: Lockheed Martin