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The USS Preble successfully employed Lockheed Martin's HELIOS laser system to neutralize four drones during a Navy counter-UAS demonstration, showcasing its effectiveness as a cost-efficient alternative to traditional missile defenses. The 60-kilowatt laser, integrated with the Aegis Combat System, can execute both soft-kill and hard-kill functions, emphasizing its role in conserving interceptor missiles for more significant threats. This advancement aligns with the Navy's Homeland Defense Mission and the Golden Dome initiative.