Boeing’s Compact Laser Weapon System (CLWS) participated in a series of counter-uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) test exercises at the 2024 Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) Counter UAS Sandbox in Suffield, Alberta.
During mock operational scenarios from May 27-31, Boeing successfully deployed two CLWS units—one in a fixed containerized setup and another integrated with a military-grade Polaris RZR. These units worked together to detect and neutralize single and multiple targets, including high-performance first-person view (FPV) drones, stationary mortars, and a swarm of five UAS.
Boeing configured the units with a radar system to detect targets before automatically “handing over” control to the compact lasers to identify, track, engage, and defeat them — demonstrating the full counter-UAS kill chain from 200 meters to 2.5 kilometers.
“This was a great opportunity for us to roll up our sleeves alongside Canadian defence and security organizations to show what CLWS could do reliably over several days, as well as the benefit of multiple lower-power, lower-cost systems engaging the same target at the same time,” said Kurt Sorenson, CLWS program manager. “CLWS is a combat-proven, multi-mission solution with an open systems architecture that’s capable of meeting Canada’s integrated command and control requirements.”
The biannual Counter UAS Sandbox, organized by Canada’s Department of National Defence’s IDEaS program in coordination with the Canadian Armed Forces, gathered advanced industry solutions for detecting and defeating small UAS. This “Sandbox” event allows innovators to showcase and test their solutions, receive feedback from the Canadian defense and security community, and educate attendees about the latest technological possibilities.
The event simulated various operational scenarios, including forward operating base defense, mobile force and dismounted personnel protection, and urban and naval operations.
Boeing’s CLWS, recently returned from a multi-year overseas deployment with the U.S. Marine Corps, has successfully defeated over 400 drones in numerous demonstrations, scenarios, and environments. Military operators have achieved these results with as little as one hour of training.
Post Image- The Boeing Compact Laser Weapon System (CLWS) (Post Image Credit: Boeing)
