U.S. Naval Research Lab demonstrates dual-use laser for power beaming and counter-drones

Scientists at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) scientists have successfully demonstrated a dual-use laser system capable of wirelessly transmitting power over long distances and rapidly transitioning to perform defensive missions, advancing expeditionary energy and defense capabilities for future warfighters.
The demonstration showed how a fielded laser system could provide remote power delivery while maintaining its original mission as a directed-energy defense capability. The demonstration was conducted in partnership with Boeing and the DEVCOM Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) and with collaboration across Navy, Marine Corps and Army stakeholders. It was sponsored by the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Acquisition & Sustainment and supported by the Operational Energy Capability Improvement Fund.
Using a trailer-mounted laser positioned across an airfield, researchers transmitted power from a standard military vehicle to specialized receivers at a remote location. The same laser system then transitioned without delay to address a simulated aerial threat, proving its ability to perform both missions without interrupting operations.  
“This was not just a laboratory exercise we were building the pieces for what this capability could actually look like on the battlefield,” said NRL Electrical Engineer Alex Grede, Ph.D. “We demonstrated that the same laser used to beam power remotely can immediately transition to counter a drone threat, giving Marines and soldiers greater flexibility without changing their operational footprint.”
‘Realistic field environment’
Unlike previous record-setting power beaming demonstrations conducted in highly controlled desert conditions, this test focused on realistic field environments and adverse atmospheric conditions, helping identify technical improvements required for operational use. The team continued testing through severe weather, including snowfall approaching whiteout conditions, until visibility nearly disappeared, all while collecting critical data for future system refinement.

“We wanted to prove this could work where warfighters actually operate, not just in ideal conditions,” said NRL Research Physicist Justin Lorentzen. “Testing in wind, snow and real atmospheric interference gives us the data we need to improve the system and move it toward a true operational capability.”
The demonstration also highlighted the importance of joint-service collaboration. While NRL continues developing the technology for naval applications, U.S. Army operational requirements helped shape the field test, particularly for expeditionary power scenarios where replacing fuel-dependent generators could improve logistics and survivability.
“The service most likely to field this kind of capability first may be the Army, and that’s exactly why this collaboration matters,” Grede said. “We can take the expertise we’ve built at NRL and help accelerate capability development across the joint force. That’s good for the services and good for the country.”
The laser system used in the demonstration was already fielded by the U.S. Marine Corps for directed-energy applications. By pairing that proven capability with high-efficiency solar receivers and mobile vehicle power generation, the team demonstrated a practical pathway toward distributed, resilient energy delivery for forward operations.
The test also validated rapid field maintenance and ease of operation. During the event, researchers quickly repaired a key system component in the field, demonstrating system resilience and maintainability in operational conditions.
NRL Radar Division Military Deputy Lt. Cmdr. Brian Di Salvo said, “This system showed both repairability and simplicity of operation, qualities that matter when you’re talking about real deployment with young operators in the field.”
The next phase of development includes additional demonstrations with marines, soldiers and sailors gathering direct user feedback and tailoring the system for operational needs.
“Our next goal is putting this capability in front of warfighters and letting them tell us how they would use it,” Grede said. “That feedback is what will help shape the next generation of power beaming systems.”
The work supports NRL’s ongoing efforts to develop scalable directed-energy technologies that improve expeditionary logistics, strengthen battlefield resilience and expand the operational reach of U.S. forces.