Top Navy Admiral Calls Lasers Essential to Preserve Missile Stocks Against Cheap Drones
Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Daryl Caudle argues that high-energy lasers could curb the costly use of interceptor missiles against low-cost drone threats.
Admiral Daryl Caudle, the Navy’s chief of naval operations, wrote that relying on expensive interceptor missiles to defeat cheap drones threatens long-term endurance in high-tempo operations. Recent engagements in the Red Sea and the war with Iran have shown how quickly drone and missile attacks can deplete missile stocks. Caudle proposes that high-powered lasers, integrated with ship power and cooling systems, can provide a cost-effective layer of defense against lower-cost threats without replacing high-end missiles.
He cautions that lasers are limited by line-of-sight, atmospheric conditions, and technical requirements, so the service should begin with manageable, self-contained units rather than waiting for megawatt-class systems. Existing laser demonstrations on vessels such as USS Portland and USS Preble have shown promise, and the Army’s recent success with a high-energy laser at the border underscores broader interest. The admiral frames lasers as a practical bridge toward a more sustainable naval defense architecture.
Why it matters
Laser weapons could help the Navy defend ships more affordably, preserving costly missiles for higher-risk threats.
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