Next-Gen Warfare: US Army readies for microwave anti-drone system

Epirus has successfully completed acceptance tests for its high-power microwave gun, a device designed to neutralize entire drone swarms and advanced electronics. The US army is set to receive the first 12 prototypes of this extraordinary device, which is developing a reputation for its indispensability in modern warfare where unmanned aerial vehicles are increasingly in use.

In a period of conflict strongly influenced by the use of drones for tasks such as reconnaissance, ammunition delivery, and small FPV drone usage, anti-drone tools are becoming invaluable to soldiers. To counter drone threats, we've already seen a range of solutions, from Russian soldiers lying in wait for drones with metaphorical duck guns and Polish "rifles" neutralizing drones, to automated anti-drone systems deploying integrated machine guns. There are also systems that can bring down drones using lasers. It's crucial to have methods that can combat not only individual drones but also entire swarms, as experienced in the attack on Kyiv.

Leonidas, an anti-drone system ordered by the US Department of Defense in 2021, has just cleared its final acceptance tests and is now ready for military use. It's set to be part of the IFPC system, which safeguards stationary and semi-stationary objects against drones, missiles, rocket artillery, and maneuvering missiles. Aside from the Leonidas microwave cannon, the system will also feature a laser and include intercepting missiles that are challenging to shoot down.

Leonidas, an innovative product from Epirus, presents a cost-effective solution in battles against drone swarms. Instead of deploying expensive missiles to counter a flock of inexpensive drones, a microwave emitter can be used which can "almost immediately" neutralize a vast number of targets. Leonidas operators can precisely and safely regulate the microwave pulses emitted by the device, allowing them to thwart successive swarm attacks without the risk of overheating.

Epirus's system has passed government acceptance tests with flying colors. In various simulations, the microwave gun was used against a multitude of diverse targets and showed satisfying capabilities of destroying swarms and reliability. The army will continue to evaluate and test it, integrating it into their tactical and operational procedures.

In the coming days, the US Army will receive 12 prototypes, followed by another three after undergoing further developmental tests. Operational tests are planned for 2024, which will facilitate the development of tactics and methods for its most effective use.