LOCUST X3 builds on operational experience from previously deployed systems to enhance modularity and artificial intelligence-enabled capabilities. The system is designed to address current and emerging threats, including Group 1–3 unmanned aircraft systems and unmanned surface vehicles.
The company said the system enables low-cost engagements, with costs below $5 per shot, and provides sustained defense without the need for reloading. LOCUST X3 was recently featured in coverage by CBS News’ “60 Minutes.”
“In today’s rapidly evolving battlespace, adversaries are deploying mass drone attacks and saturation tactics that threaten mission success and warfighter survivability,” said Wahid Nawabi, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer at AeroVironment. “With LOCUST X3, we deliver an affordable, scalable solution to outpace and neutralize large-scale aerial threats, safeguard critical infrastructure, and maintain decisive advantage wherever the fight demands.”
The system features a scalable laser in the 20 to more than 35 kilowatt range, a modular beam director, and AI-enabled detection, tracking and engagement automation. These functions are supported by AV_Halo PINPOINT, part of AeroVironment’s hardware-agnostic software platform for layered counter-unmanned aircraft system defense.
LOCUST X3 is aligned with the Department of War’s Modular Open Systems Approach principles, enabling integration across fixed and mobile platforms. It builds on earlier LOCUST systems fielded through programs such as the Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser and Palletized High Energy Laser, and has been validated on platforms including the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle and Infantry Squad Vehicle.
“LOCUST X3 transforms how defenders respond to the challenge of massed drone attacks,” said Mary Clum, President of AeroVironment’s Space, Cyber and Directed Energy segment. “Its modular design and advanced AI allow for resilient, adaptive protection of critical assets—on any platform, at the tactical edge or at fixed sites. With LOCUST X3, operators can now counter high-volume threats with unmatched speed, precision, and affordability.”
According to the company, the system has been designed for field maintainability and operational flexibility based on lessons learned from earlier deployments. It is also intended to be platform-agnostic, allowing integration on tactical vehicles, fixed installations and maritime environments.
AeroVironment said the system has been developed with production scalability in mind, using modular subsystems and commercially mature components. The design is intended to support rapid manufacturing, lower unit costs at scale and long-term operational support.
The system’s lethality can be scaled across different power configurations to meet mission requirements. Its software is designed to automate targeting and tracking functions, reducing operator workload while maintaining precision engagement capabilities.
AeroVironment, listed on NASDAQ under the symbol AVAV, develops defense technologies across air, land, sea, space and cyber domains. Its portfolio includes autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-UAS technologies, directed energy systems and AI-enabled software platforms.
