IPG Photonics has publicly introduced its CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW high-energy laser (HEL) system during the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) event in London this week.
The system is designed to address the growing challenge posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS), particularly smaller drones categorized as Group 1 and Group 2.
The CROSSBOW MINI is a compact, battery-powered laser platform intended for field deployment. It can operate independently or be integrated with existing command and control systems and radar networks. According to IPG, the system is capable of operating for up to 12 hours on internal battery power, with options for extended use via external sources.
Other models in the CROSSBOW product line include the 500 W Dazzler, which is currently available, and the 8 kW HEL system, which is open for pre-orders.
IPG reports that the 3 kW version has been tested in field conditions and has successfully neutralized over 100 drones in various scenarios, including swarm attacks. The system is intended for use in both military and civilian settings, such as protecting infrastructure like government buildings, ports, and public venues.
“The CROSSBOW product line establishes IPG as a complete laser defense systems provider,” said Ben Allison, VP of IPG Defense Products. “It transitions us from a component supplier to a full solution partner, delivering top-tier software, optics, and lasers in a single operational package while leveraging our extensive manufacturing capabilities and laser expertise.”
Lockheed Martin has incorporated the CROSSBOW system into its Sanctum counter-UAS framework. The integration has been demonstrated in multiple field exercises, aimed at showcasing a scalable and modular approach to drone defense.
“The modern battlespace demands integrated and layered defense against small UAS,” said Tyler Griffin, Lockheed Martin’s C-UAS Director. “To address this need, Lockheed Martin developed the Sanctum C-UAS ecosystem with end-to-end capability to detect, track, identify, and defeat small UAS. Sanctum features a scalable, modular architecture, and these core design principles were proven during our recent integration with IPG’s CROSSBOW.”
Post Image Credit: IPG Photonics CROSSBOW.
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