LOCUST Laser Manufacturer to Expand New Mexico Operations

The U.S. Army’s anti-drone weapons systems supplier is planning a $30 million facility.

U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth speaks during a press conference on U.S. military action in Iran at the Pentagon in Washington, on March 2, 2026. Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images

U.S. anti-drone laser weapons manufacturer AeroVironment, Inc., announced plans on March 3 to invest more than $30 million to expand operations in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The company supplies the U.S. Army with mobile 20-kilowatt LOCUST Laser Weapon Systems for countering drone threats. The systems are used on infantry squad vehicles and joint light tactical vehicles and are designed for high-precision, rapid tracking.