CILAS HELMA-LP Unveiled at SOFINS 2025 – A Compact Laser Sniper Weapon for Static Targets

At the SOFINS 2025 special forces exhibition, French laser technology leader CILAS unveiled its latest innovation in directed-energy weapons: the HELMA-LP. This new portable laser weapon is a compact and man-portable evolution of the previously fielded HELMA-P system, which gained operational experience with the French Navy and even played a role in securing events during the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The HELMA-LP – with “LP” standing for Laser Portable – is a next-generation tool designed specifically for destroying static soft targets using concentrated laser energy. Unlike its predecessor, the HELMA-P, which was a more stationary platform, the HELMA-LP is meant for mobility, precision, and discretion.

A Rifle-Like Design with Tactical Features

Despite the futuristic illustrations in its promotional materials, the actual prototype showcased at SOFINS 2025 looked like a high-tech rifle. It included a stock and pistol grip reminiscent of an AR-15 platform. A central parallelepipedal housing contains the laser emitter, while a cylindrical optical lens at the front focuses the beam on the target.

Mounted on top is a Picatinny rail, allowing for the attachment of sniper-style optics and sights, enhancing aiming precision in tactical scenarios. While the static display didn’t include the sight, it’s part of the modular system and can be added as needed.

How It Works

The HELMA-LP is optimized for targeting and neutralizing soft static threats such as:

• Canvas tents and coverings

• Sensitive electronic devices (radios, laptops, screens)

• Optronic systems (cameras, sensors, gimbals)

• Armored glass and delicate optics

The weapon engages targets from a distance of 300 to 500 meters, with the laser beam maintaining a 20 mm diameter at maximum range. Because its laser power is lower than the larger HELMA-P, the operator must keep the laser on target for longer durations—typically between 5 to 15 seconds, with a maximum possible engagement time of 60 seconds.

To ensure accuracy and effectiveness, operators can use either a tripod or stabilize the weapon using the backpack power supply for low-profile firing positions. Additionally, visible or infrared markers can assist with target acquisition.

Portability and Power

The HELMA-LP consists of two main parts:

• A rifle-style laser effector

• A battery-powered rucksack, connected via two cables

The entire system weighs around 15 kilograms, making it light enough to carry and deploy by a single soldier. The backpack battery pack powers multiple engagements without needing a recharge, though detailed battery specifications have not yet been disclosed.

Key Specifications

• Type: Man-portable laser weapon

• Target Range: 300–500 meters

• Beam Diameter at 500m: 20 mm

• Engagement Duration: 5–15 seconds (max 60 seconds)

• Total Weight: ~15 kg

• Power Source: Battery pack (carried in rucksack)

• Operating Temperature: -20°C to +35°C

• Noise Profile: Silent

• Visibility: Beam invisible to the naked eye

A Weapon of Surprise and Precision

One of HELMA-LP’s strongest advantages lies in its stealthy nature. Silent and invisible, this “sniper laser” can engage and disable key equipment without revealing the operator’s position. This feature is expected to bring psychological pressure and confusion to enemy forces who can’t immediately trace the source of damage.

CILAS also confirmed interest from manufacturers of remote-controlled weapon stations (RCWS), who see potential in integrating the HELMA-LP for vehicle or robotic applications. Its compact, efficient, and non-lethal nature (against personnel) also opens possibilities for crowd control, infrastructure protection, and counter-drone operations.

As the world steadily embraces directed-energy weapons, the HELMA-LP stands out as a uniquely tactical solution, giving dismounted operators and special forces a new tool in future battlefield scenarios.