Lockheed Martin recently demonstrated its advanced test high energy asset (Athena) anti-drone laser at the U.S. Air Force at a government test range at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where it engaged and shot down multiple fixed-wing and rotary drones representative of current threats. Because it was developed to complement anti-drone capability with the network of systems already in use, the system operated in a fully netted environment with a government command and control (C2) system and radar sensor. The radar track was provided to airmen who operated Athena via cues from the C2, then Athena’s beam director slewed, acquired, tracked and defeated the drone with a high-energy laser.
"We've watched in recent news this type of laser weapon solution is essential for deterring unmanned vehicle type threats, so it's an exciting time for us to watch airmen compete Lockheed Martin's critical technology. Athena has evolved to ensure integration and agility are key and it remains an affordable capability for the warfighter," said Sarah Reeves, Lockheed Martin vice president of missile defense programs.
The system is transportable and therefore enables the Air Force to emplace it anywhere they need to defend bases and high-value assets.