U.S. Navy Unveils New Laser Weapon During Iran Conflict

What Is the HELIOS Laser System?

The HELIOS directed‑energy weapon represents a leap forward in shipboard laser combat technology. Unlike conventional kinetic weapons — which rely on explosive force to destroy targets — HELIOS uses a focused beam of high‑intensity light to burn through or disable drones and other low‑altitude aerial threats at the speed of light.

According to military analysts, HELIOS operates at roughly 60 kilowatts of power (with potential scaling to higher power levels), offering a near‑instantaneous, precision‑guided strike capability. The system can also function as a surveillance dazzler, blinding or confusing optical sensors on incoming targets in addition to inflicting structural damage.