The French Navy has tested the 2kW HELMA-P precision laser weapon system, capable of destroying drones up to 1km away
The French navy wants to equip ships with laser weapons. The service is cooperating with CILAS for this purpose.
Here's What We Know
The French Navy and CILAS have tested a laser weapon called High Energy Laser with Multiple Applications (HELMA-P). The system was developed by CILAS and Ariane four years ago.
The system comprises a 2 kW high-energy laser and a turret that is adjustable along two axes. Only one operator is needed to operate HELMA-P.
Du 12 au 14/06, à bord de la FDA Forbin en Méditerranée, la @DGA, la Marine et la société CILAS ont conduit une campagne d'essais du système HELMA-P, arme laser de lutte anti-drones. L'intégration de drones aux opérations est une évolution majeure des conflits et du combat naval. pic.twitter.com/1Wy4G9P4Ds
- Marine nationale (@MarineNationale) June 20, 2023
According to CILAS, the laser weapons are capable of destroying unmanned aerial vehicles up to 1km away. The company is studying the effectiveness of the HELMA-P against naval targets, including boats and warships' antennas.
Tests took place in the middle of this month in the Mediterranean Sea. The laser weapon was mounted on the Horizon-class frigate Forbin. The HELMA-P prototype demonstrated high efficiency in engaging drones.
Source: Naval News
