Navy conducts high-energy laser weapon system demonstration

The Navy conducted a high-energy laser weapons system demonstration from an amphibious transport dock ship Tuesday, the service announced.

The Portland (LPD-27) used the Solid State Laser-Technology Maturation Laser Weapons System Demonstrator (LWSD) Mark 2 MOD 0 P to engage a static surface training target while sailing in the Gulf of Aden.

“Portland previously tested the LWSD in May 2020 when it successfully disabled a small unmanned aerial system while operating in the Pacific Ocean,” the service said in a statement.

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Michael Gilday said on Twitter that “directed energy is the future of our Navy” following the test.