Full Breakdown
Army Moves Toward Autonomous Launcher and High-Energy Laser Contracts
7/16/2026, 1:07:24 PM
Program Background and Objectives
CAML is intended to replace the Army’s Typhon Mid-Range Capability launcher, which proved too large for battlefield deployment. The new system will be offered in medium and heavy variants, each mounted on an autonomous mobile platform with a munitions pallet. The E-HEL program seeks a family of high-energy lasers that can be mounted on platforms such as Strykers, Joint Light Tactical Vehicles, and Infantry Squad Vehicles. Its goal is to protect “semi-fixed” and maneuver forces from Groups 1-3 drones (small- to medium-sized UAVs).
Official Statements from Lt. Gen. Frank Lozano
Lozano indicated that demonstrations from multiple vendors are concluding and that the Army plans to issue an Other Transaction Agreement award by the end of August. He emphasized a preference for multiple vendors to preserve intellectual-property access and future system maturation. Regarding the laser effort, he confirmed ongoing contract negotiations with AeroVironment (AV) after successful demonstrations at White Sands Missile Range. The Army’s request for information released late last year called for 20 E-HEL systems, with an award expected in the second quarter of fiscal year 2026 or later.
Program Details and Timeline
- CAML award: Anticipated “towards the end of the August timeframe,” potentially split between two or more contractors to avoid single-source dependence.
- E-HEL award: Negotiations with AV are underway; the contract could be finalized in Q2 FY 2026, aligning with the Army’s target of acquiring 20 laser units.
- Vendor strategy: The Army is exploring three to four vendors for CAML, though the exact number of awards was not disclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re actually just on the tail end of a number of demonstrations from vendors who are proposing the autonomous mobile platform […] and the munitions pallet capability, and a pitch on weapon system integration capability,” — Lt. Gen. Frank Lozano
- “We’ll probably look at making an award towards the end of the August timeframe.” — Lt. Gen. Frank Lozano
- “What I did not want to go do is just go to a single vendor to provide everything,” — Lt. Gen. Frank Lozano
- “We’re negotiating a contract with AeroVironment right now for the enduring high energy laser system,” — Lt. Gen. Frank Lozano
- “That has shown a lot of recent promise and capability out at White Sands Missile Range during multiple demonstrations.” — Lt. Gen. Frank Lozano
