Pentagon Pursues Lasers to Stop Iran’s Attack Drones
17th March 2026
The U.S. is examining laser weapon systems as a way to counter Iranian drone attacks and protect U.S. and allied forces in the Middle East, as the conflict places increasing strain on existing missile defenses.
CBS reported that Iranian Shahed drones, which can cost $20,000 each, have been used in attacks across the region.
U.S. and allied forces typically intercept them with missile defense systems that can cost millions of dollars per shot.
The cost imbalance has drawn attention to directed energy weapons, including lasers, that could neutralize drones at far lower cost.
Necessity is the mother of invention.