A recent display at Sea-Air-Space 2025 showcased a groundbreaking advancement in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, featuring the MQ-9B SeaGuardian equipped with an innovative podded air-to-air laser system. This aerospace development sparks imaginations, conjuring scenarios of the drone deploying laser beams to neutralize swarms of Shahed kamikaze drones over strategic regions such as the Black Sea.
The concept of integrating directed energy weapons, specifically lasers, into aircraft is not entirely new, though previous attempts have met with limited success. General Atomics’ latest offering, positioned in the 25-kilowatt power class but scalable up to a formidable 300 kilowatts, represents a significant leap forward. This system can operate both in pulsed and continuous wave formats, expanding its versatility on the battlefield. According to Naval News, the design incorporates a large optical aperture and efficient cooling mechanisms, which contribute to a significant reduction in size and weight, allowing it to be deployable across air, land, and sea platforms.
At the heart of this advanced laser system is a 25-kilowatt distributed gain laser housed within an underwing pod. Accompanying this technology is an ultra-high power density battery system, enhancing its operational efficiency. Distributed gain laser technology distinguishes itself through a series of dispersed gain mediums that amplify light while minimizing the need for bulky cooling systems, which are necessary for larger gain mediums. This innovation alleviates the weight burden that traditional laser technologies impose on aircraft, making it particularly appealing for drone applications.
General Atomics has a history of pioneering efforts in this arena. In 2021, the company, in collaboration with Boeing, was awarded a contract to showcase a 300-kilowatt-class solid-state, distributed gain high-energy laser weapon system for the U.S. Army. The following year, the firm made strides in air-to-air communication with the introduction of the Laser Airborne Communication-12 Terminal. This capability is adaptable for use on various UAV platforms, including the MQ-9A Reaper, MQ-9B SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian, and MQ-1C Gray Eagle 25M drones.
As military technologies rapidly evolve, the integration of directed energy systems into UAVs like the MQ-9B SeaGuardian could redefine aerial combat and force engagement dynamics, promising enhanced capabilities in intercepting and neutralizing aerial threats in various operational theaters.
