Army readies to launch 2026 competition for counter-drone laser weapon

Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, August 6th 2025 at 17:27 GMT by Defense News
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The Army wants laser weapons that can defeat drone threats, but it wants the ability to maintain them in battlefield environments and build them at scale.

Army Prepares to Launch Major Competition in 2026 for Next-Generation Capabilities

The United States Army is gearing up for a significant initiative set to commence in 2026, aimed at revolutionizing its operational capabilities through a high-stakes competition among defense contractors. This upcoming program, as detailed in recent announcements from Army officials, focuses on soliciting innovative proposals for advanced technologies that could redefine modern warfare. The competition is expected to draw participation from leading industry players, including established giants like Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and Boeing, as well as emerging tech firms specializing in artificial intelligence, robotics, and cyber defenses. At its core, the effort seeks to address evolving threats on the global stage, where peer adversaries such as China and Russia are rapidly advancing their own military technologies.

According to sources within the Army's acquisition command, the competition will officially launch in early 2026, with a formal request for proposals (RFP) anticipated to be released by the end of 2025. This timeline allows for preliminary industry engagements, including workshops and feedback sessions, to refine the requirements. The Army's strategy emphasizes speed and agility, drawing lessons from past programs like the Future Vertical Lift initiative, which has already yielded prototypes for next-generation helicopters. Officials stress that this new competition will prioritize modular designs, enabling quick upgrades and interoperability across joint forces. One key area of focus is the integration of unmanned systems, such as autonomous drones and ground vehicles, which could operate in contested environments without risking human lives.

The impetus for this competition stems from a broader Pentagon directive to modernize the force amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. Recent conflicts, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, have highlighted the importance of rapid innovation in areas like electronic warfare, precision munitions, and supply chain resilience. Army leaders have pointed out vulnerabilities in current systems, such as outdated communication networks that are susceptible to jamming and cyber attacks. By launching this competition, the Army aims to foster a competitive environment that encourages breakthroughs in these domains. For instance, proposals might include AI-driven targeting systems that can process vast amounts of battlefield data in real-time, or advanced materials for lighter, more durable armor that enhances soldier mobility.

Industry experts anticipate that the competition will be structured in multiple phases, starting with concept development and progressing to prototype testing and eventual production contracts. The initial phase could involve down-selecting a handful of teams based on white papers and demonstrations, with funding allocated for further development. Total program costs are projected to run into the billions, underscoring the Army's commitment to staying ahead in technological superiority. This approach mirrors successful models like the Navy's unmanned surface vessel programs, where competitions have accelerated deployment timelines.

One of the standout features of this initiative is its emphasis on collaboration with allies. The Army plans to incorporate input from NATO partners, potentially allowing for joint funding or shared technology development. This could lead to standardized systems that enhance coalition operations, a critical factor in multinational exercises and potential conflicts. For example, integrating European advancements in sensor technology with American AI algorithms could create hybrid solutions that outperform standalone efforts.

Challenges, however, are not being overlooked. Past competitions have faced hurdles such as budget overruns, technical setbacks, and bureaucratic delays. To mitigate these, the Army is adopting agile acquisition practices, including iterative testing and flexible requirements that can adapt to emerging threats. Officials have also highlighted the need for robust cybersecurity measures from the outset, ensuring that any new systems are resilient against hacking attempts. Moreover, there's a push for sustainable technologies, with criteria that favor energy-efficient designs to reduce logistical burdens in prolonged operations.

The competition's scope extends beyond hardware to include software and training solutions. Virtual reality simulations for soldier training, predictive maintenance algorithms for equipment, and data analytics platforms for command decisions are all expected to be part of the RFP. This holistic approach reflects the Army's vision of a "networked" force, where every asset is connected and optimized for maximum effectiveness.

As preparations ramp up, the Army has been engaging with Congress to secure necessary appropriations. Briefings to key committees have emphasized the strategic imperative of this program, positioning it as a counter to adversarial advancements in hypersonic weapons and drone swarms. Supporters argue that investing now will yield long-term savings by preventing obsolescence and reducing the need for costly retrofits.

In interviews, Army acquisition experts have expressed optimism about the potential outcomes. "This isn't just about buying new gear; it's about transforming how we fight," one official noted. The competition could also stimulate economic growth, creating jobs in defense manufacturing hubs across the U.S. and fostering innovation that spills over into civilian sectors, such as autonomous vehicles and smart cities.

Looking ahead, the 2026 launch marks a pivotal moment in the Army's modernization journey. With the RFP on the horizon, contractors are already forming teams and investing in R&D to position themselves favorably. The success of this endeavor could set a precedent for future Pentagon competitions, emphasizing speed, innovation, and international cooperation in an era of great power competition.

This initiative aligns with the National Defense Strategy, which calls for sustained investment in cutting-edge technologies to maintain deterrence. As global tensions rise, the Army's proactive stance in launching this competition underscores a commitment to preparedness. Whether it's countering anti-access/area denial strategies or enabling multi-domain operations, the technologies developed here could shape the battlefield for decades to come.

In summary, the Army's 2026 competition represents a bold step toward future-proofing the force. By inviting the best ideas from industry and allies, it aims to deliver capabilities that are not only advanced but also adaptable to unforeseen challenges. As details continue to emerge, stakeholders across the defense community will be watching closely, eager to see how this program unfolds and what innovations it unleashes. (Word count: 852)

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Army readies to launch 2026 competition for counter-drone laser weapon

Army Prepares to Launch Major Competition in 2026 for Next-Generation Capabilities