AeroVironment demonstrated its palletized LOCUST laser weapon system on the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN‑77) on April 21, 2026. The live‑fire event, conducted in October 2025, showed the system tracking, engaging, and neutralizing multiple target drones while the carrier was maneuvering, confirming the platform‑agnostic design of LOCUST.
The demonstration validates LOCUST’s ability to operate in the demanding environment of a carrier deck, a key milestone that supports the company’s strategy to expand its Space, Cyber, and Directed Energy (SCDE) segment. By proving that the laser can be deployed on a ship without extensive modifications, AeroVironment positions itself to secure future naval contracts and to broaden the use of high‑energy lasers across the fleet.
AeroVironment’s Q3 FY2026 results provide context for the milestone. Revenue reached $408.0 million, up 56% from the same quarter a year earlier, while gross margin rose to $98.8 million. The SCDE segment generated $129.3 million in revenue, and the Autonomous Systems segment delivered $278.7 million, underscoring the company’s growth in both core and emerging markets.
John Garrity, vice president of Directed Energy Systems, said, “LOCUST delivers effective, all‑domain protection against emerging drone threats at the speed of light—on any platform, in any domain, for any mission.” He added, “Rolling LOCUST onto a ship and quickly initiating operations facilitates the expanded use of high‑energy lasers across the Fleet without the need for costly, time‑consuming ship modifications. This is a game‑changer for the Navy and for our national security.”
Analysts view the demonstration as a positive catalyst for future contracts. The event follows AeroVironment’s recent FAA clearance for LOCUST and new government counter‑drone awards, which together enhance revenue visibility and growth potential in the directed‑energy market.
The demonstration reinforces AeroVironment’s competitive position and signals a continued focus on expanding directed‑energy capabilities across multiple domains, positioning the company for accelerated growth in both naval and land‑based markets.
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