Stryker armoured personnel carriers will receive a 50W DE M-SHORAD laser weapon for destroying missiles, aircraft, helicopters and drones

The U.S. Army wants a laser weapon to equip its Stryker wheeled armoured personnel carriers. The project has been chosen for the Kord Technologies Inc. team, based in Huntsville, Alabama.

Here's What We Know

The Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) recently announced a potential $158.1 million contract with Kord for the development of the Directed Energy Maneuver Short Range Air Defense (DE M-SHORAD).

In simple terms, DE M-SHORAD is a mobile laser weapon that acts as an air defence system. The laser has a power of 50 watts and is designed to intercept missiles, aircraft, helicopters and drones.

Kord specialists will simplify maintenance of the system and reduce the weight of the laser unit so it won't overload the Stryker. By the end of this year, the company will have up to four DE M-SHORAD prototypes ready for delivery. Four more prototypes will be available next year.