Electro Optic Systems (EOS) has captivated audiences at the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program’s 2024 Counter Uncrewed Aerial Systems (CUAS) Sandbox event in Canada.
Amid a gathering of global innovators, EOS showcased its Laser Dazzler technology, integrated into their Slinger counter-drone system, the firm said in a news release.
Leading the charge was Ian Hilton-Cowie, EOS Projects Engineering Lead, alongside the EOS Defence Systems Titanis Team.
Their demonstration underscored the Laser Dazzler’s prowess in counter-drone scenarios, effectively degrading, denying, and destroying the electro-optical sensors on typical uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) with a non-lethal, zero-collateral laser.
“EOS has established itself as the pioneer in Laser Dazzling technology, being the first to successfully integrate it into remote weapon systems,” remarked Andreas Schwer, Group CEO of Electro Optic Systems.
“Through the success of our Slinger system, we have proven our ability to deliver accurate counter-drone technologies. The Laser Dazzler builds on this experience, using our world-leading technology to extend options for non-lethal payloads,” he added.
The Laser Dazzler enhances remote weapon systems (RWS) by offering optic-dazzling, disabling, and disengaging capabilities, providing a formidable solution to counter uncrewed threats.
It can be seamlessly integrated into an RWS as a near drop-in replacement for the 7.62mm coaxial machine gun, allowing operators to switch between lethal kinetic and non-lethal scalable kinetic electronic warfare (SKEW) measures against aerial threats.
The dazzling effects of the Laser Dazzler commence at the effective range of its camera. Laser light, characterised by its single wavelength and coherence, disperses over distance in the atmosphere.
To maintain necessary power density at operational ranges, the Laser Dazzler employs bespoke beam-forming and optics, tailored to specific tactical requirements.
For Group 1 UAVs, which depend on the global positioning system (GPS), global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), and inertial navigation systems (INS) for navigation and payload delivery, maintaining sensor integrity is crucial.
The Laser Dazzler’s ability to mitigate sensor damage from light exposure ensures sustained operational accuracy.
Schwer concluded, “EOS is committed to the continuous development of defence technology, equipping allied forces with systems that are not just lethal but also adaptable. Our ongoing innovations and partnerships keep pushing the boundaries of what is possible in defence technology.”
The event organisers will publish lessons learned and announce the prize winners in the coming weeks.
