A new and innovative, rugged lighting system is provided. The problem of achieving a lighting system that optimizes ruggedness, luminosity, energy and thermal efficiency, versatility, and unbundling of key components is solved. Embodiments of the present invention include a rugged lighting system comprising a housing unit with a body with integrally formed back, sides, and a front with an opening to provide access to the interior of the housing unit; a first lens configured to substantially cover the opening; a first lens bezel configured to removeably attach to the housing unit over the first lens; a second lens configured for placement over the first lens; and a second lens bezel configured to removeably attach to the housing unit over the first lens bezel. Various embodiments further include a light module within the housing unit with a light emitting diode (LED) mounted to an electronics module having a printed circuit board for operating the LED.