LOCUST laser weapon system for countering Group 1, 2 and 3 drones. Photo: AeroVironment

The Army is in negotiations with AeroVironment [AVAV] on a contract for its Enduring-High Energy Laser (E-HEL) program, a lead official confirmed on Tuesday. While Lt. Gen. Frank Lozano, portfolio acquisition executive for fires, did not provide specifics on the AV capability for E-HEL, he noted the deal aligns with the Army’s effort “to move out very aggressively on” directed energy. “We’re negotiating a contract with AeroVironment right now for the Enduring High-Energy Laser system, which is a laser system…