A science-fiction future is becoming increasingly possible in the present, thanks to rapid advancements in high-energy lasers for military and defense applications. Thanks to major gains in fiber laser technology, tracking, optics, and thermal management, these tools are becoming a reality as potential counter-drone measures, with other applications on the way.
In September 2026, the U.S. Army signaled just how important this technology may be going forward by awarding a major production contract for a high-energy laser weapon system to AeroVironment Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV). That's a significant boon for AVAV stock and a boost for the company as it continues to expand beyond its drone tech foundations.
