EOS Secures Landmark Deal for 'Apollo' Laser Weapon System

Electro Optic Systems (EOS), an Australian defense technology company, has officially named its high-energy laser weapon system "Apollo." This announcement comes shortly after EOS secured a €71.4 million (approximately A$125 million) contract with a European NATO member state for the delivery of the 100 kW-class laser system, marking the first known export of such a weapon.

Apollo is designed to counter unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in the Group 1–3 categories, effectively neutralizing drone threats at the speed of light. The system offers 360° coverage, including vertical engagements, and can be deployed in both containerized and vehicle-mounted configurations. It can function as a standalone weapon or integrate into layered counter-drone defenses alongside kinetic effectors. The system is compatible with NATO command-and-control and integrated air defense systems.

The contract, announced in August 2025, includes production, delivery, spare parts, training, and documentation, with fulfillment scheduled between 2025 and 2028. The laser system has undergone testing in close collaboration with customers. The system is mobile, for deployment on a truck. To ensure high performance, the system is supplied with algorithms, threat detection, target acquisition, and beam locking systems.

Dr. Andreas Schwer, CEO of EOS, emphasized the system's capabilities:

"Our new world-leading laser weapon system has the ability to engage targets instantly. The laser hits the target at the speed of light, unlike a bullet which can take a second or two to get there. The system is very accurate and has a very low cost-per-shot—less than 10 cents per shot."

The unveiling of Apollo took place ahead of the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2025 exhibition in London, where EOS showcased its high-energy laser capabilities as part of Team Defence Australia.

The introduction of high-energy laser weapons like Apollo signifies a transformative shift in defense strategies, particularly in countering the proliferation of unmanned aerial systems. Drones have become a defining feature of modern conflict, used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions. Their increasing numbers, fast and erratic movements, and autonomy make them increasingly difficult to defeat with conventional systems.

While laser weapons have been in development for several decades, the Apollo system represents a significant advancement in operational readiness and exportability. Previous systems, such as the UK's DragonFire, are still in the development phase, with service entry planned for 2027. EOS's successful contract marks the first known export of a 100 kW-class laser weapon system, indicating a maturation of the technology and growing international interest.

The deployment of such advanced systems raises ethical and legal considerations, including the potential for escalation in arms races and the need for updated international regulations governing the use of directed-energy weapons.

The unveiling of EOS's Apollo High Energy Laser Weapon and its subsequent export contract represent a pivotal moment in defense technology. As nations seek effective and economical solutions to emerging threats, systems like Apollo are poised to play a central role in future defense strategies.