nLIGHT to Demo 70kW Laser Weapon System at POST Conference
Event summary
- nLIGHT will showcase its 70kW-class Laser Weapon System (LWS) at the Pacific Operational Science & Technology (POST) Conference, March 9-12, 2026.
- The company will also present its 30kW and 10kW High-Energy Lasters (HELs).
- nLIGHT has 25 years of experience in laser power scaling and utilizes proprietary beam combination technologies.
- The company’s vertically integrated manufacturing process spans from semiconductor chip to fiber amplifier.
The big picture
nLIGHT’s focus on high-energy laser weapon systems aligns with a broader trend of military modernization and a shift towards directed energy technologies for counter-UAS, counter-rocket, artillery, and missile (C-RAM) defense. The demonstration of a 70kW system signals a significant advancement in power scaling, potentially opening new applications and contract opportunities, but also increasing competitive intensity within the defense sector.
What we're watching
- Contract Flow
- The demonstration of the 70kW LWS suggests a maturing product, but sustained revenue will depend on securing larger-scale contracts with the US Department of War and international partners.
- Scalability
- nLIGHT's vertically integrated approach is a strength, but the ability to scale production of these high-power systems to meet potential demand remains a key execution risk.
- Competitive Landscape
- While nLIGHT touts industry-leading systems, increased investment in directed energy weapons by competitors will likely intensify pricing pressure and require ongoing technological innovation.
Related topics