Why is the Pentagon betting on lasers to fight cheap drones?

Lasers are attractive because inexpensive drones can force defenders to spend vastly more on conventional interceptors.

1. A laser can offer a low cost per shot while electrical power and cooling remain available.
2. Weather, smoke, dust, line of sight, and maintenance can limit real-world performance.
3. The Army’s Joint Laser Weapon System commitment shifts the question from demonstration to dependable fielding.
4. Watch whether the 24-month target produces repeatable service use rather than another test program.