The US Navy has kicked off a $29.9-million effort to develop one of the world’s most powerful shipboard laser weapons.

The project, called SONGBOW, aims to take out complex threats like drone swarms, cruise missiles, and hypersonic glide vehicles at the speed of light.

At its core: a 400-kilowatt laser made by combining multiple 50-kilowatt emitters into a single, precision-guided beam that represents a significant leap over existing shipboard capabilities.

The system is designed to slash response times and reduce the need for traditional ammunition during combat missions.

Coherent Aerospace & Defense is leading the build under a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract from the Office of Naval Research.

The initial development phase runs 20 months, with options that could extend the program into 2027.

Inside the Speed-of-Light Weapon

To achieve its high-energy output, SONGBOW relies on pulsed fiber laser modules supported by a precision beam-control system for accurate targeting.

This modular setup allows the weapon to scale power levels without compromising beam quality, even during extended engagements.

While its primary role is kinetic defense, the laser may also support secondary functions such as remote sensing and battlefield illumination.

In addition to its naval role, the system is being shaped for potential deployment on land-based platforms, reflecting the navy’s push to extend directed-energy capabilities across different mission environments.

It is also expected to work alongside existing systems like Aegis and SM-6 interceptors as part of a layered defense strategy.