The US Army is expected to spend at least $400 million on counter-drone laser systems, according to information provided by a person familiar with the plan. The procurement is described as involving AeroVironment Inc., with the deal valued at $400 million or more. The reports say the effort reflects a broader push by militaries to address the growing use of unmanned aerial systems on contemporary battlefields. Counter-drone capabilities are increasingly sought to detect and defeat small drones and other unmanned threats, including those used for surveillance or attacks. While the sources agree on the overall size of the purchase and the company involved, neither report provides further specifics such as delivery schedules, contract terms, or the exact configuration of the laser systems. The Army’s move is portrayed as part of ongoing efforts to develop and field technologies designed to neutralize proliferating drone threats. The information is attributed to an unnamed source familiar with the matter, and no additional official details are included in the provided excerpts.