Pentagon, FAA test counter-drone laser weapon in New Mexico

The military and Federal Aviation Administration conducted a high-energy laser test over the weekend, the Pentagon announced Friday, confirming DefenseScoop’s reporting.

The FAA and Joint Interagency Task Force 401, the Defense Department’s counter-drone hub, conducted the test at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico between March 7-8. The test is intended to advance “the safe use of counter-unmanned aerial systems in the United States” and boost interagency coordination, according to the Pentagon.

The release did not disclose which high-energy laser system was used in the White Sands test. A defense official, commenting on condition of anonymity, identified the platform as the Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser, or AMP-HEL.

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