EOS Launches “Apollo” High-Energy Laser Weapon for Next-Gen Counter-Drone Defence

London, 8 September 2025 : Australian defence technology company Electro Optic Systems (EOS) has officially unveiled “Apollo”, the name of its high-energy laser weapon system. Symbolising light, vision, and protection, Apollo represents a major step forward in the use of directed-energy weapons against the growing threat of drones.

The announcement comes just weeks after EOS secured the world’s first export contract for a 100 kW-class laser weapon with a European NATO member state. Valued at around €71.4 million (A$125 million), the deal includes delivery, training, spare parts, and long-term support between 2025 and 2028.

Designed for Modern Drone Warfare

Apollo is built to counter Group 1–3 drones and drone swarms, which are increasingly being used in conflict zones worldwide.

• Scalable Power: Operates between 50–150 kW.

• Rapid Engagement: Can disable 20–50 drones per minute, with a response time of under 1.5 seconds.

• 360° Coverage: Provides full horizontal and vertical targeting.

• Range: Delivers hard kills at 50 m–3 km, and can disrupt drone sensors at up to 15 km.

• Magazine Capacity: Stores over 200 shots in isolated mode, and offers unlimited firing when linked to external power.

Mobility and Integration

The weapon is designed for quick deployment. It can be mounted on vehicles, packaged in a 20-foot ISO container, or installed as a stand-alone defence system. Operational within two hours, Apollo is also fully compatible with NATO-standard command-and-control and air defence systems, making it easily deployable in joint operations.

Cost Advantage

EOS highlights Apollo’s ability to defeat drones at a fraction of the cost of traditional missile defences. With each shot costing less than 10 cents, it provides an economical solution to large-scale drone swarm attacks, where missile interceptors costing hundreds of thousands of dollars would be unsustainable.

Strategic Significance

EOS Group CEO Dr Andreas Schwer said Apollo addresses an urgent need for affordable and scalable defence against unmanned aerial threats.

“There is strong international interest in high energy laser weapons, and it is increasingly clear they will play a central role in counter-drone defence. The demand is urgent and accelerating, which is why EOS has invested for years to bring this capability to a level of maturity.”

Apollo is also ITAR-free, meaning it can be adopted, localised, and sustained by partner nations without restrictions, giving it a unique advantage in the global defence market.

Showcased at DSEI UK

Apollo will make its international debut at the DSEI defence exhibition in London from 9–12 September 2025, where EOS will present it as part of Team Defence Australia. Defence experts view this unveiling as a clear sign that directed-energy weapons are transitioning from concept to frontline reality.