The U.S. Navy’s Next-Generation Weapons

In recent years, the United States Navy has been at the forefront of technological innovation in the field of military hardware. With advancements such as hypersonic missiles, directed-energy weapons, railguns, and drones, the U.S. Navy is building an arsenal that sounds straight out of a science fiction novel. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of these groundbreaking technologies that are poised to redefine the future of naval warfare.

DDG(X) — The Next-Generation Warship

The DDG(X) is expected to be a cornerstone of the future Navy, slated to replace the current Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. With a more extensive hull and an integrated power system, the DDG(X) is engineered to accommodate future weapon technologies, including hypersonic missiles and lasers. Its integrated power system will allow for greater energy distribution flexibility, providing the necessary juice to power advanced weaponry and sensors. The start of its construction is planned for 202⁸¹, making it a key component of America’s naval force structure for the coming decades.

THOR — Tactical High-power Operational Responder

Drones have become a staple in modern warfare, and the need to counter them effectively has grown urgent. THOR, or Tactical High-power Operational Responder, is designed to be an effective countermeasure against drone swarms. It uses microwaves to disable or destroy multiple drones simultaneously. The system is also designed to be rapidly deployable and rechargeable², making it a versatile tool in any combat scenario involving unmanned aerial vehicles.

DE M-SHORAD — Directed Energy Maneuver Short Range Air Defense

This mobile laser weapon takes air defense to the next level by providing the capability to shoot down incoming missiles, shells, and mortars. Mounted on a Stryker vehicle, DE M-SHORAD offers agility, precision, and a rapid rate of fire. It represents a shift from traditional projectile-based air defense systems to directed energy solutions², promising lower costs per engagement and minimal collateral damage.

LWSD — Laser Weapon System Demonstrator

Operating at sea, the Laser Weapon System Demonstrator (LWSD) is designed to disable or destroy drones. This directed-energy weapon is currently installed on the USS Portland amphibious transport dock ship². As naval fleets often operate in drone-sensitive areas, the LWSD offers a quick and precise method to eliminate these threats, thus enhancing fleet protection measures.

ODIN — Optical Dazzling Interdictor, Navy

ODIN focuses on blinding or damaging the sensors of drones, rendering them ineffective. Currently mounted on the USS Dewey guided-missile destroyer², ODIN complements other defensive systems by providing a non-lethal yet highly disruptive capability against unmanned systems.

Railgun — Electromagnetic Projectile Launcher

Utilizing electromagnetic force, the railgun is capable of launching projectiles at speeds of up to Mach 7. Its range of over 100 miles and the ability to penetrate hardened targets make it a formidable addition to naval artillery. While still in the prototype stage², once operational, the railgun could revolutionize long-range naval engagements.

SHiELD — Self-protect High Energy Laser Demonstrator

Airborne threats are not solely the domain of the Navy’s sea vessels. SHiELD is designed to be mounted on fighter jets, offering a line of defense against incoming missiles and other airborne threats². This will significantly enhance the protective envelope around carrier-based aircraft, thus increasing their operational effectiveness.

MQ-25 Stingray — Unmanned Aerial Refueler

Last but not least, the MQ-25 Stingray aims to extend the range and endurance of carrier-based aircraft by offering mid-air refueling capabilities. The Navy plans to acquire 72 of these unmanned aerial vehicles by 202⁶³, bringing a new level of strategic depth to naval air operations.

Conclusion

The United States Navy’s focus on innovation and technological advancement is leading to a new era of naval warfare. The array of next-generation weapons — ranging from hypersonic missiles and lasers to railguns and unmanned systems — offers a glimpse into the future, a future where agility, precision, and adaptability are the keys to maintaining maritime supremacy.