The U.S. Army has deployed the AMP-HEL mobile laser system to counter small drones near Rio Grande City, Texas.
The Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) system is mounted on a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV). Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, assigned to Joint Task Force-Southern Border, operate the system as part of Operation Ardent Vanguard.
AMP-HEL is the U.S. Army’s mobile 20-kW laser system designed to destroy small unmanned aircraft. It is currently being used for counter-UAS missions, according to DVIDS.
On Aug. 31, 2026, soldiers operated the AMP-HEL near Rio Grande City. Photos released by the U.S. military show them operating the system, conducting a technical inspection and performing a maintenance check.
As part of Operation Ardent Vanguard, U.S. Northern Command is working with the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. According to the U.S. side, the military is operating within narrowly defined authorities to provide military capabilities to protect the territorial integrity of the U.S. southern border.
