[GLOBAL] Counter-UAS Enters Industrial and Export Phase: Raytheon LIDS $729M + AV–Leonardo DRS Laser Moves to Production
RTX/Raytheon received a $729 million contract for KuRFS sensors and Coyote effectors under the US Army's LIDS program — with the first international buyers (Qatar, Jordan) in fixed-site and mobile configurations. In parallel, AeroVironment (E-HEL prime, $464.8 million OTA in September 2026) selected Leonardo DRS for power and thermal management of the 30-kW LOCUST X3 laser — the US Army's first directed-energy weapons production contract.
RTX/Raytheon received a $729 million contract for KuRFS sensors and Coyote effectors under the US Army's LIDS program — with the first international buyers (Qatar, Jordan) in fixed-site and mobile configurations. In parallel, AeroVironment (E-HEL prime, $464.8 million OTA in September 2026) selected Leonardo DRS for power and thermal management of the 30-kW LOCUST X3 laser — the US Army's first directed-energy weapons production contract.