300-kW-Class Power: US Startup Pursues Laser-Carrying Drone Concept

US startup Astro Mechanica is exploring an autonomous drone concept designed to carry a high-energy laser producing between 250 and 300 kilowatts.

Weighing 25,000 pounds (11,340 kilograms), the proposed aircraft uses a conventional tube-and-wing airliner layout modified for its specialized mission.

According to Aviation Week, a kerosene-fueled turboshaft engine would power generators capable of producing up to 4 megawatts of electricity.

Read the full story on NextGen Defense: 300-kW-Class Power: US Startup Pursues Laser-Carrying Drone Concept