Australian defense firm Electro Optic Systems announced that a NATO country has ordered its laser-based drone defense platform, valued at approximately $96 million. The company said Wednesday that the counter-drone system it will supply includes a new EOS 100-kilowatt high-energy laser technology.
The company’s unit in Singapore will fulfil the contract and cover spare parts, training and documentation. According to EOS, the order marks its first export sale of the system, with deliveries scheduled between 2025 and 2028.
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High-Energy Laser Capability
The counter-drone system is designed as a mobile platform that can operate from a truck. It incorporates algorithms and capabilities for threat detection and laser beam locking during target acquisition.
EOS emphasized that it worked closely with customers to test the laser platform, which will be integrated into a multilayered air defense system. The high-energy laser capability addresses the urgent market need for a cost-effective defense solution against drone swarm attacks.
Multiple Drone Targeting
Andreas Schwer, CEO of EOS, mentioned that the laser platform operates at “less than 10 cents per shot” and can rapidly target multiple drones. It is designed to take down 20 drones per minute. “The laser hits the target at the speed of light, unlike a bullet, which can take a second or two to get there,” he explained.
EOS will showcase the platform at the DSEI 2025 Defence Exhibition & Trade Show in London from Sept. 9 to 12.