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2 clusters · 5 sources · 16 days · First seen · Last updated

Global military directed-energy weapons development

Overview

Military development of directed-energy weapons is progressing through both experimental planning and active pilot programs. In China, the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) has presented plans for an airborne laser-weapon tracking and aiming system. This technology, potentially integrated into the J-36 sixth-generation fighter-bomber, aims to deliver at least 100 kilowatts of power to intercept cruise missiles, neutralize drones, or blind missile seekers.

In the United States, the Pentagon has initiated a counter-drone pilot program managed by Joint Interagency Task Force 401. Mandated by the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, the program has selected four systems for a 365-day trial at various military installations, including Fort Huachuca, Fort Bliss, and Naval Base Kitsap. The selected technologies include three laser systems from AeroVironment, Kord, and Boeing, as well as Epirus’ Leonidas high-powered microwave system designed to disable drone swarms.

Entities

AeroVironment · J-36 · Beijing Precision Engineering Institute for Aircraft Industry · Boeing · Aviation Industry Corporation of China

Timeline

  1. [TECHNOLOGY] 3 sources
    Pentagon selects directed-energy weapons for drone defense pilot

    The Pentagon has selected four laser and microwave systems from AeroVironment, Kord, Boeing, and Epirus for a pilot program to defend US military bases against drone threats.

  2. [TECHNOLOGY] 2 sources
    Airborne laser weapons advance in military technology development

    Military technology is shifting toward airborne laser weapons, with China's AVIC showcasing high-power directed-energy systems for potential integration into its J-36 sixth-generation fighter aircraft.

Sources

256today.com · asiatimes.com · dronexl.co · griffonnews.com · list25.com