Directed Energy Weapons Chosen for U.S. Drone Defense Pilot Program

The Joint Interagency Task Force (JIATF-401) announced on Monday that it has chosen directed energy weapons from AeroVironment [AVAV], Boeing [BA], Epirus, and Kord Technologies for a pilot program. The initiative aims to enhance the protection of U.S. airspace against drone threats by evaluating these advanced systems.

The selected weapons include AeroVironment’s palletized high-energy laser system, Boeing’s Compact Laser Weapon System, Epirus’ Leonidas high-powered microwave system, and Kord’s Firefly palletized high-energy laser system. These systems will undergo testing to determine their effectiveness in countering unmanned aerial threats.

Epirus’ Leonidas system, highlighted in the announcement, uses high-power microwaves to neutralize drones. The pilot program will assess how these directed energy solutions can be integrated into existing defense strategies to safeguard critical infrastructure and public safety.