Lasers Could Soon Keep Military Drones Flying Indefinitely

A new method for powering unmanned aircraft could dramatically extend how long they remain in the air. PowerLight Technologies is developing a laser-based wireless energy system that sends power to drones in flight, allowing compatible aircraft to recharge without returning to the ground.

As part of this effort, PowerLight is working with Kraus Hamdani Aerospace to integrate the technology with the K1000ULE long-endurance unmanned aircraft system. Built for persistent autonomous operations, the aircraft served as the platform used to explore how laser-delivered energy could support extended missions while maintaining communications and operational control.

Early testing showed the system can maintain precision tracking of unmanned aircraft and deliver kilowatt-class energy through an optical link over long distances. The work is part of the Power Transmitted Over Laser to UAS initiative, and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) is closely watching the program as the Department of Defense evaluates whether the technology could extend drone endurance for future missions.

Read the full story at TechSpot

Story by Alfonso Maruccia