Israeli Firm Says New Laser System Can Down Drones in Seconds
Esh-Tech Systems claims its Dronelight directed-energy weapon intercepts unmanned aerial vehicles in under two seconds using low power consumption, as militaries increasingly explore laser-based defenses against drone threats
Photo: Esh-Tech Systems
The Israeli company Esh-Tech Systems has developed a laser-based air defense system it says can neutralize attacking drones in under two seconds while consuming significantly less power than comparable directed-energy systems.
According to the company, its Dronelight system intercepts unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) using approximately 4 kilowatts of power. It added that the system is about 25% cheaper than comparable continuous-wave laser systems.
The technology is based on short, high-intensity pulses of optical energy rather than a continuous beam. The system is capable of up to 30 interceptions per minute and is designed to counter drone swarms.
The system is mounted on a dedicated military vehicle and is classified by the company as a Hard Kill laser weapon. Esh-Tech said it has undergone evaluation by multiple international customers.
According to Defense Blog, similar systems typically require around 20 kilowatts or more per interception and rely on generators and dedicated platforms. Esh-Tech said its system has an effective range of up to one kilometre and provides 360-degree coverage.
The company had planned to present the system at the Eurosatory defence exhibition in Paris this month, though it is unclear whether Israeli firms will be permitted to participate.
Esh-Tech CEO Erez Riahi said the system’s low power consumption and reduced operating costs could improve the mobility and flexibility of forces on the battlefield.