U.S. Navy Redesigns Submarine Power for Laser Weapons
Future energy-dense weapons systems force an upgrade in electrical distribution for the upcoming Columbia-class submarine fleet.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Nuclear
Live Poll
Should the U.S. prioritize funding for advanced laser weapon systems on naval ships?
L3Harris Technologies reports that future directed energy weapons are forcing a redesign of power distribution across the U.S. Navy submarine fleet. The shift reflects a growing requirement for shipboard electrical systems to support laser-based weaponry.
Why it matters
As directed energy weapons pull ammunition directly from a ship's electrical grid, the move necessitates enhanced power generation and distribution architectures. This trend is central to the development of the upcoming Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine program.
Virginia-class submarines currently carry eight universal modular masts to raise sensors above the waterline. These systems must now interface with upgraded power grids to handle the high-draw demands of energy-based weapons.
The players
L3Harris Technologies
A defense contractor focused on mission-critical electronics, tactical communications, and integrated power distribution systems for naval vessels.
Naval Sea Systems Command
The U.S. Navy agency responsible for the development, acquisition, and maintenance of naval ships and combat systems.
The details
The universal modular mast uses a non-penetrating design to raise sensors above the waterline without compromising the pressure hull. By decoupling the mast from the hull, the system allows for flexible sensor integration as new electrical components, like those required for directed energy, are added to the ship. L3Harris supplies the power distribution systems for all Virginia-class submarines, integrating these modular components into the ship's internal power architecture.
Timeline
2022: HELIOS laser system installed on USS Preble.
February 2026: USS District of Columbia reached 65% completion.
April 2026: L3Harris awarded $129.9 million naval contract.
October 22, 2026: L3Harris published editorial on submarine power role.
2028: Planned delivery of first Columbia-class submarine.
The Tech Race
The transition to energy-dense weapons places high-voltage distribution at the center of the Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine program. This effort follows the successful 2022 integration of the HELIOS laser on the USS Preble, moving laser technology from surface vessels to underwater platforms.
The immediate impact involves a shift in how electrical power is distributed and managed across the upcoming fleet of 12 Columbia-class submarines. Technical requirements for these systems are currently being finalized in preparation for the fleet's inaugural delivery in 2028.
The takeaway
The U.S. Navy is preparing for a new generation of submarines where power management is as critical as hull design. Watch for the 2030 timeline, when the first Columbia-class patrol is expected to test these integrated power distribution systems at sea.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Nuclear technology.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Defence Blog.
Live Poll
Should the U.S. prioritize funding for advanced laser weapon systems on naval ships?
