Epirus and General Dynamics Unveil Leonidas AR: A Microwave-Based Autonomous Counter-Drone System

Los Angeles, October 9, 2025 — Epirus and General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) have introduced the Leonidas Autonomous Robotic (Leonidas AR), a new mobile counter-UAS system that combines Epirus’ Leonidas high-power microwave (HPM) weapon with GDLS’s Tracked Robot 10-ton (TRX) unmanned ground vehicle.

The system integrates a robotic ground platform with electromagnetic defense technology to provide an effective, low-cost, and low-collateral solution for countering unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and drone swarms in both static and moving operations.

Mobile Counter-UAS and Air Defense Capability

The Leonidas AR operates on GDLS’s TRX platform, which powers the HPM system developed by Epirus. The system is designed for short-range air defense and non-kinetic engagement, allowing operators to disable multiple drones without the need for traditional munitions.

“Epirus’ partnership with General Dynamics Land Systems continues to deliver practical solutions to meet modern battlefield needs,” said Andy Lowery, CEO of Epirus. “Together, we are developing capabilities that support the Army Transformation Initiative and strengthen the defense industrial base through collaboration between established and emerging technology companies.”

Technology Behind Leonidas

The Leonidas HPM platform is a modular and scalable system that uses Weaponized Electromagnetic Interference (WEMI) to disable electronic targets. It provides a “one-to-many” engagement capability, meaning one system can neutralize several drones at once.

Leonidas is also software-defined, allowing operators to:

• Define safe zones and exclude specific frequencies to avoid unintended effects.

• Adjust waveforms and energy outputs to suit different operational needs.

• Update software and features without removing the system from service.

This flexibility makes the platform adaptable to new types of electronic and aerial threats as they emerge.

Features of the GDLS TRX Platform

The GDLS TRX provides the mobility and endurance for Leonidas AR. It is designed with AI-based controls, hybrid-electric propulsion, and lightweight construction to ensure high mobility across various terrains.

Its features include:

• All-terrain mobility with advanced suspension.

• Hybrid-electric engine providing more than 300 miles of range and speeds up to 45 mph.

• 360-degree radar and sensors for detection and navigation.

• Onboard computing systems for autonomous and remote operation.

• Crewless deployment to reduce personnel risk in high-threat environments.

A wheeled version of the TRX is also under development to meet broader mission requirements.

“By combining General Dynamics’ experience in ground combat systems with Epirus’ counter-UAS technology, we have created a capability aligned with today’s operational requirements,” said Jim Pasquarette, Vice President of U.S. Strategy & Business Development at GDLS.

Continuing Partnership and Development

The Leonidas AR is the second counter-UAS platform developed jointly by Epirus and GDLS. Their collaboration began in 2021, leading to the earlier release of Leonidas Stryker, which mounted the same HPM system on the U.S. Army’s Stryker vehicle.

This ongoing cooperation combines the production scale of traditional defense manufacturers with the innovation of emerging technology firms, supporting rapid integration and deployment of modern defense systems.

A full-scale Leonidas AR prototype will be showcased at Booth 7609 in Hall D/E during the Association of the U.S. Army’s Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C. The system will be presented as part of the companies’ continued efforts to provide modern, mobile counter-UAS solutions for the U.S. military and allied partners.