US Naval Research Laboratory Demonstrates Dual-Use Laser System Capable of Wireless Power Transfer and Counter-Drone Engagement
The US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), in collaboration with Boeing and DEVCOM Ground Vehicle Systems Center, has successfully demonstrated a dual-use laser system that can wirelessly transmit power over long distances and rapidly switch to a directed-energy weapon mode to neutralize drones. The system has been tested in blizzard conditions and further demonstrations are planned to gather user feedback.
Highlights
- The US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) successfully demonstrated a dual-use laser system that can both wirelessly transmit power over long distances and function as a directed-energy counter-drone weapon.
- The demonstration was conducted in partnership with Boeing and DEVCOM Ground Vehicle Systems Center, with support from the US Navy, Marine Corps, and Army.
- The US Marine Corps has already deployed the same laser system for directed-energy applications prior to this demonstration.
- The system was validated under near-whiteout blizzard conditions with high winds and atmospheric turbulence, providing data to advance operational readiness.
- NRL plans additional demonstrations to collect direct user feedback and customize the system for real-world operational requirements.
US Naval Research Laboratory Demonstrates Dual-Use Laser System Capable of Wireless Power Transfer and Counter-Drone Engagement
Scientists at the US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) have successfully demonstrated a dual-use laser system capable of transmitting power wirelessly over long distances while rapidly switching modes to conduct aerial defense missions against drones.
Demonstration Details and Partners
The demonstration showcased a field-deployed laser system that can deliver remote power transmission while retaining its original function as a directed-energy defensive weapon — and successfully neutralized a simulated target drone. The demonstration was conducted in collaboration with Boeing and the DEVCOM Ground Vehicle Systems Center, with cross-service support from stakeholders across the US Navy, Marine Corps, and Army.
Notably, the laser system used in this demonstration has already been deployed by the US Marine Corps for directed-energy applications.
How the System Works
Researchers deployed a trailer-mounted laser system on the opposite side of an airfield, transmitting power from a standard military vehicle to a dedicated remote receiver. The same laser system then seamlessly switched modes to immediately engage a simulated aerial threat, demonstrating a highly flexible dual-use capability.
Validation in Adverse Weather Conditions
The team tested the system under demanding environmental conditions, including near-whiteout blizzard environments. NRL research physicist Justin Lorentzen stated:
"Testing in high winds, snowfall, and real atmospheric turbulence gave us the data needed to improve the system and advance it toward a genuine operational capability."
Next Steps
Researchers indicated that additional demonstrations are planned in the next phase to collect direct feedback from end users, enabling the system to be customized to meet real-world operational requirements.
Image credit: US Navy, photo by Jonathan Steffen-Arnold
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