Laser weapons add another layer of security at Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate

AeroVironment's LOCUST laser system has been deployed at President Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate for enhanced security (Andrew Harnik)The US has deployed a laser-based anti-drone weapon at President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, strengthening security against potential aerial threats.According to a report by The War Zone (TWZ), at least one AeroVironment LOCUST laser system, mounted on a 4×4 Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), was spotted at the estate in photographs taken by photographer Andrew Harnik on October 31.The deployment adds another layer to the existing air-defence network around Mar-a-Lago, which includes Avenger short-range air-defence systems armed with Stinger missiles, radar and electronic warfare equipment.The broader security network also includes elements of the military's Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) Fly-Away Kits, equipped with Ku-band radar, electronic support measures (ESM), jammers and 360-degree infrared search-and-track systems. These systems help detect, track and counter potential drone incursions around the estate, according to TWZ.Confirming the deployment, NORAD and US northern command told TWZ that the systems were deployed at the request of the US Secret Service. "These assets add a complementary layer of technology to enhance protection," the commands said.How the LOCUST laser weapon can take down dronesDeveloped by US defence manufacturer AeroVironment, LOCUST X3 is a third-generation high-energy directed-energy weapon designed to counter unmanned aerial systems (UAS).According to the manufacturer's official specifications, the system operates in the 20–35-plus kilowatt power class and is designed to defeat Group 1 to Group 3 drones, including small and tactical unmanned aircraft.The system uses a high-energy laser effector to direct concentrated energy towards a target. Its AV_Halo PINPOINT fire-control software maintains precise laser placement on moving targets, including those attempting to manoeuvre during an engagement. AeroVironment says the system integrates AI-enabled detection, tracking and target prioritisation to accelerate engagements against aerial threats.LOCUST X3 features a modular open systems architecture (MOSA), allowing it to integrate different sensors and operate across mobile, fixed, semi-fixed and containerised configurations. The manufacturer also says it can receive targeting information from integrated sensors or higher-level command-and-control systems.Rising drone threat puts Trump's security under greater scrutinyThe deployment comes amid growing concerns over the security threats facing US President Donald Trump, including the potential use of unmanned aerial systems for surveillance or attacks.Small commercial drones are relatively inexpensive, widely accessible and difficult to detect, making them a growing challenge for security agencies protecting high-value individuals and sensitive locations.Trump has faced multiple assassination attempts, including the July 2024 shooting at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The evolving threat environment has also raised concerns about the use of drones by hostile actors, particularly as advances in autonomous technology and coordinated drone operations make aerial threats more complex.The deployment of laser weapons alongside Avenger missile systems, radar and electronic warfare equipment reflects the US military's growing emphasis on layered counter-drone protection.