AeroVironment unveiled the upgraded Locust X3 combat laser.
Locust X3 complex in container and mobile versions
To combat unmanned aerial vehicles aviation Various systems are being offered, including specialized combat lasers. For example, the American company AeroVironment, Inc. is developing the Locust family of laser systems. It recently unveiled a new, third, modification of this system. The Locust X3 design is said to have taken into account the testing and operational experience of previous systems, as well as the specifics of modern unmanned threats.
Last modification
Development of the Locust project began at the turn of the last decade. In the early 1920s, AeroVironment launched the first prototype of the new family of systems, and in 2022, combat trials began at a US Army base. According to various sources, this system has now entered combat testing at various bases. It is also known that the system has been repeatedly modified based on the test results.
On March 24, 2026, AeroVironment unveiled a new version of the Sarancha, designated X3. The system was first unveiled at the AUSA Global Force conference. CBS also shared information about the system, which produced a detailed report.
New combat module with laser
The developer reports that the Locust X3 was developed based on previous systems in the series and is essentially a direct evolution of them. The new project leveraged the experience of testing and operating other Locust systems. Furthermore, feedback and suggestions from military personnel who had previously used them were taken into account.
This development approach did not lead to a radical redesign of the system. The overall architecture and key solutions remained unchanged. At the same time, new or improved components, updated software, and other features were introduced. These measures improved the overall tactical and technical characteristics and enhanced combat performance.
AeroVironment has already manufactured and tested prototypes of the new system in various configurations. In the near future, the company will be able to set up a production line and begin accepting orders. The Locust X3 is expected to attract interest from a variety of customers, primarily the US Army.
Technical features
The Locust X3 is a combat laser system for short-range air defense. It is designed to engage a wide range of aerial targets, primarily unmanned aerial vehicles. It is claimed to be capable of suppressing or destroying UAVs of US Category 1-3 classification. The system can be built in various configurations to meet customer requirements.
Operator Interface
The system includes a variety of units for various purposes, which can be mounted on any platform. The placement of the units depends on the platform's characteristics. Furthermore, the modular architecture should simplify repair and upgrades.
The developer has already unveiled a mobile version of the laser, built on the JLTV chassis. Mounting the units in a compact, remote-controlled container is also proposed. Project documentation mentions the possibility of ship-based deployment, but this modification has not yet been demonstrated. Regardless of the configuration, the Saranch's capabilities and performance remain the same.
The main element of the system is the laser-equipped combat module. The module has a U-shaped pivot bearing on which a box-shaped housing containing all the necessary instruments is mounted. It utilizes a solid-state laser with a maximum power of at least 35 kW. The laser module houses the optical-electronic target acquisition and guidance systems.
The Locust X3 is equipped with the AV_Halo Pinpoint digital automated fire control system. It comprises a suite of electronic instruments, including a fully functional computer, and specialized software utilizing artificial intelligence. This FCS executes operator commands and processes data from third-party sources. Furthermore, it is capable of autonomously searching for aerial targets, performing analysis, and controlling laser deployment.
Demonstration of combat operations
The AI-based control system is claimed to offer increased speed, efficiency, and reliability. It handles the most complex calculations and operations, thereby relieving humans of the bulk of the workload. At the same time, the laser system's potential is more fully realized.
The Locust X3 can operate with a variety of power sources. It can be connected to the platform's onboard systems, or use its own batteries or existing power grids. If the general power requirements are met, the combat laser can begin its duty cycle and fire.
The key characteristics of the system depend on the power supply. Depending on the power source, the actual pulse power, firing rate, and even operating costs may vary. Under optimal conditions, the laser can produce pulses of maximum power and considerable duration, up to several minutes. The minimum cost per pulse is $5.
New generation
AeroVironment emphasizes that the Locust X3 system is not a completely new development, but was built on existing combat lasers. These were improved and refined based on operational experience and the application of new technical solutions. This development approach was intended to offer a number of significant advantages.
Locust complex first version
First and foremost, we've managed to maintain technical continuity and standardization. This will limit the growth of production and operating costs while simultaneously improving key performance characteristics. Furthermore, the calculation process, overall operation, and other aspects will be simplified.
The Locust X3 boasts enhanced performance characteristics. The new 35-kilowatt laser is expected to enhance target impact or extend the suppression/destruction range. Operation at lower power is also possible, and this parameter now has a wider range. The system can be tailored to specific targets and deliver an optimal balance of combat and cost performance.
As with previous versions of the Sarancha, the modular architecture, allowing for the use of various platforms, is of great importance. Interestingly, the X3 project expanded the range of such platforms. Even during the development stage, measures were taken to ensure the future integration of the laser into naval weapons systems.
Light UAVs after exposure to a 20-kilowatt laser from the first version of the Locust
According to AeroVironment's calculations, the new modification of the system will be capable of combating a wide range of UAVs of various classes and types. The advertising focuses primarily on loitering munitions and long-range attack UAVs, which have become widespread in recent years. In combating such targets, the Locust X3 combat laser is intended to complement other anti-aircraft systems and enhance overall effectiveness. Defense.
Needs verification
Overall, the new American-developed combat laser looks interesting and appears to offer genuinely improved combat capabilities. However, the Locust X3 has not yet undergone the required testing and has not demonstrated its ability to engage its stated targets. Furthermore, it has not yet been used to repel actual UAV attacks.
The new version of the Sarancha can be expected to undergo the necessary testing soon and demonstrate the advertised performance. The Pentagon may then order this equipment and deploy it to combat units. After that, it will become clear whether the X3 system lives up to expectations and lives up to its current hype.
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