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BlueHalo is set to continue its design and production of cutting-edge laser weapon systems for warfighters, after receiving a new $95.4M contract awarded by The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC).
The contract will see BlueHalo deliver multiple energy weapon prototypes with increased automation, efficiency, performance, and ruggedization along with improved size, weight, and power (SWaP).
Leveraging BlueHalo’s advancements in counter-UAS (C-UAS) technologies and lessons learned through the active deployment of its LOCUST laser systems, the company will conduct continuous system performance improvement, research and prototyping. This will advance the performance and durability of weapons systems, and increase the lethality of engagements against small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) and similar threats.
The LOCUST system combines precision optical and laser hardware with advanced software, artificial intelligence (AI), and processing to enable and enhance the directed energy “kill chain.” This includes tracking, identifying, and engaging a wide variety of targets with its hard-kill HEL.
The contract for advanced Directed Energy (DE) prototype development was awarded as part of the Laser technology Research Development and Optimization (LARDO) program through the Aviation & Missile Technology Consortium (AMTC).
Dr. Vikram Manikonda, BlueHalo Chief Technology Officer, commented; “We are developing tools to win the next war so there is no next war. We are expanding and accelerating BlueHalo’s air defense innovations, not only with Directed Energy technologies but with the diagnostic and surveillance monitoring systems that enable their sustainment, operation, and continuous improvement in the field.
“Our solutions are interoperable and designed with extreme care for the warfighter, providing the Army with a full system of systems to mature the use of laser weapons to meet our national security demands.”
Trip Ferguson, BlueHalo Chief Operating Officer, added; “Through the LARDO program, the U.S. Army is investing in the rapid innovation and maturation of our Nation’s laser weapon capabilities.
“BlueHalo’s LOCUST laser systems are deployed overseas, providing multi-domain mission success in UAS threat elimination and force protection. We are honored that the U.S. Army continues to trust BlueHalo to deliver superior Directed Energy technologies and air defense innovations.”
