U.S. Naval Research Laboratory Demonstrates Dual-Use Laser System for Wireless Power Transmission and Counter-Drone Operations

Scientists at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) have successfully demonstrated an innovative dual-use laser system capable of wirelessly transmitting power over long distances and rapidly switching modes to conduct defensive combat operations — marking a significant breakthrough in energy supply and battlefield protection for future expeditionary forces.

Program Background and Sponsorship

The demonstration was sponsored by the Office of the Under Secretary of the Army for Acquisition & Sustainment (OUSW (A&S)), with support from relevant partner organizations. The effort reflects the U.S. military's strong emphasis on integrating advanced energy technology with counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) capabilities.

Core Technology: The Dual-Use Laser

The defining feature of this dual-use laser system is its operational flexibility. In its primary role, it functions as a Power Beaming platform, wirelessly delivering electrical energy via laser beam to receivers at extended ranges — directly addressing the challenge of power supply in expeditionary operations. When a threat is detected, the system can rapidly transition to a defensive mode and execute Counter-UAS (C-UAS) missions, intercepting and neutralizing incoming drone threats.

Strategic Significance

As unmanned aerial systems become increasingly prevalent on the modern battlefield, counter-drone capability has emerged as an urgent requirement for militaries worldwide. The system demonstrated by NRL integrates power transmission and defensive combat operations on a single platform, reducing logistical burden while enhancing the self-sufficiency and responsiveness of expeditionary forces operating in complex environments.

This technological milestone represents a meaningful step forward in the U.S. Navy's integration of Directed Energy Weapons and wireless power transmission technologies. It is expected to have a profound impact on the future expeditionary warfare model of the U.S. armed forces.

Source: Official announcement by the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL)

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