Australia has unveiled a groundbreaking laser weapon system that promises to transform military defence strategies worldwide. The Apollo High Energy Laser Weapon, developed by Electro Optic Systems (EOS), represents the most advanced counter-drone technology currently available on the international market.
Apollo System Specifications and Capabilities
Technical Performance Standards
The Apollo system delivers exceptional firepower with scalable energy output reaching 150 kilowatts. The laser weapon destroys drones through thermal destruction, heating targets with light particles until they melt, ignite, or explode. EOS engineers designed the system to neutralise Group 1 to Group 3 drones, covering aircraft weighing from 9 kilograms to 599 kilograms.
The weapon achieves hard kills at distances up to three kilometres whilst disrupting optical sensors from 15 kilometres away. Apollo engages 20 drones per minute with target lock acquisition in just 700 milliseconds. The system provides 360-degree coverage and can slew across 60 degrees in 700 milliseconds.
Apollo High Energy Laser Weapon system mounted on a vehicle
Mobility and Deployment Features
Apollo fits inside a standard 20-foot shipping container with two emitter units protruding from the top. The containerised design enables rapid deployment and integration into existing defence infrastructure. EOS offers vehicle-mounted configurations for enhanced tactical flexibility.
The system operates independently through its internal power supply, engaging 200 drones before requiring recharge. When connected to external power sources, Apollo fires indefinitely provided electronics remain functional.
Economic Advantages Over Traditional Defence Systems
Cost-Effective Counter-Drone Operations
Apollo delivers remarkable economic benefits compared to conventional missile systems. Each laser engagement costs approximately 10 cents whilst traditional missile interceptors like the Patriot system cost one million dollars per shot. EOS Chief Executive Officer Dr Andreas Schwer explained the economic reality facing modern militaries.
“A drone costs $1,000, but a missile needed to kill that drone is $500,000,” Dr Schwer stated. “It is fast becoming an economic war and the only option for the defender is to have cheaper solutions to destroy those drones.”
Operational Efficiency Metrics
The system demonstrates superior efficiency against drone swarm attacks. Apollo engages multiple targets simultaneously whilst providing unlimited ammunition capacity through external power connections. This capability addresses the growing threat posed by mass drone deployments seen in recent conflicts.
International Market Breakthrough and NATO Adoption
Historic Export Contract Achievement
EOS secured the world’s first export contract for a 100-kilowatt class laser defence system in August 2025. A European NATO member state purchased the system in a deal valued at €71.4 million. The contract includes production, delivery, spare parts, training, and documentation scheduled for completion between 2025 and 2028.
Dr Schwer emphasised the urgent market demand driving international interest. “The demand is urgent and accelerating, which is why EOS has invested for years to bring this capability to a level of maturity,” he explained.
Strategic Timing and Global Context
The Apollo deployment coincides with increased Russian drone incursions into NATO airspace. Recent weeks have seen Russian drones entering Polish territory whilst airports in Denmark and Norway faced closures due to drone threats. These developments have prompted European militaries to accelerate air defence upgrades.
Advanced Integration Capabilities
NATO System Compatibility
Apollo integrates seamlessly with NATO command-and-control systems and existing air defence networks. The weapon functions as a standalone platform or within layered defence architectures alongside kinetic effectors. EOS designed the system for compatibility with missile-based defences and other counter-drone technologies.
Multi-Domain Defence Applications
The laser system incorporates advanced algorithms, radar systems, threat detection capabilities, target acquisition technology, and beam locking mechanisms. These features ensure optimal performance across diverse operational environments.
Future Implications for Warfare Evolution
Paradigm Shift in Military Technology
Dr Schwer identified a fundamental transformation in modern warfare dynamics. “There’s been a paradigm shift in warfare, particularly in Ukraine, which has been driven by drones,” he observed. The conflict in Ukraine demonstrated how inexpensive drones can overwhelm traditional air defence systems.
Technological Limitations and Challenges
Apollo faces operational constraints in adverse weather conditions. Rain, fog, humidity, and dust can affect laser accuracy and effectiveness. The system cannot engage targets through terrain obstacles or hills, unlike missile systems. Defence experts acknowledge these limitations whilst recognising the significant advancement in directed energy weapons.
Manufacturing and Development Timeline
Production and Delivery Schedule
EOS will fulfil the NATO contract through its Singapore operations. The company has invested years in developing the technology to operational maturity. Apollo represents the culmination of EOS’s four-decade experience in laser and optical technologies.
The EOS Electro Optic Systems team at the Australian defence manufacturing facility
Market Expansion Potential
The system’s ITAR-free status enables international partners to adopt, localise, and sustain the technology independently. This characteristic enhances global market accessibility and reduces export restrictions common with American defence technologies.
Operational Testing and Battlefield Readiness
Real-World Performance Validation
EOS conducted three years of field testing and numerous firing trials in collaboration with customers. The development programme included extensive validation to ensure battlefield readiness. Apollo achieved operational status following rigorous testing protocols designed to meet military standards.
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Deployment Timeline for European Forces
The laser system will reach European frontlines within 18 to 24 months following contract completion. NATO forces will integrate Apollo into existing defence networks to counter emerging drone threats. The deployment represents a critical enhancement to European air defence capabilities.
Australia’s Apollo laser system marks a decisive moment in military technology evolution. The weapon addresses urgent operational requirements whilst delivering unprecedented economic efficiency against drone swarms. As modern warfare increasingly relies on unmanned systems, Apollo provides militaries with a scalable, cost-effective solution that operates at the speed of light.
