The undated image shows the U.S. Navy testing a weapon system known as HELIOS from the USS Preble destroyer in the middle of the ocean.

The U.S. Navy has developed a directed-energy weapon that can intercept unmanned drones and possibly cruise missiles while enhancing naval operations in combat areas.

JACKSONVILLE, Ill. (Tribune News Service) — A new photo from the United States military shows the successful use of a laser weapon made to destroy drones. The U.S. Center for Countermeasures’ released the photo of the USS Preble using the laser weapon, referred to as “HELIOS” in its annual report.