Lockheed Martin says the Pentagon could have operational high-energy laser weapons capable of destroying aerial threats by 2030.

Company executive Stephanie Hill said laser systems have already successfully intercepted targets and are becoming a practical, cost-effective defense option.

Lockheed is developing more powerful laser systems through a Pentagon program that could eventually scale up for cruise missile defense.

The company is also working on other low-cost counter-drone technologies, including high-powered microwave systems and AI-driven defense platforms, Breaking Defense has reported.

As global defense spending increases, Lockheed says its systems can be adapted to meet the security needs of different countries.