WASHINGTON — The U.S. Navy has awarded a $150 million contract for two high-power laser weapons systems by 2020. <br />Lockheed Martin has agreed to provide the navy with a high-energy laser and integrated optical-dazzler with surveillance (HELIOS) system, Naval Technology reported. <br />The HELIOS system combines a laser weapon, long-range intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) and counter-unmanned aerial system (counter-UAS) capabilities. <br />It's designed to counter drones and small boats, as well as provide long-range ISR capabilities to decision-makers. <br />The current contract represents the first phase in the navy's surface laser weapon system program, and will see Lockheed Martin supply two laser systems for testing purposes. <br />The first unit will be integrated onto an Arleigh-Burke-class destroyer, while the second unit will be used for land testing at the White Sands Missile Range.
