Epirus Demonstrates Leonidas System to Neutralize Fiber-Optic Drones in U.S. Test
Epirus successfully demonstrated its Leonidas VehicleKit, a high-power microwave system, by disabling a fiber-optic controlled drone during a live-fire test at a U.S. government site in December 2025. This marks the first documented use of weaponized electromagnetic interference to neutralize such drones, addressing operational challenges posed by their immunity to traditional electronic warfare methods. The Leonidas system utilizes non-ionizing radiation and precise energy targeting to minimize collateral damage while effectively countering evolving aerial threats.
Theia Market Signal Identification - AI Assisted
Epirus conducted a live-fire demonstration of its Leonidas VehicleKit, a high-power microwave system, on December 2025, successfully disabling a fiber-optic controlled unmanned aerial system (UAS) at a U.S. government testing site. This marks the first documented defeat of such a drone using weaponized electromagnetic interference.
The Leonidas platform used a software-defined electromagnetic pulse to neutralize the drone's electronics without kinetic effects or radio-frequency jamming. The test addressed operational gaps against fiber-optic drones, which have become a significant threat in environments like Ukraine, where they are immune to traditional electronic warfare methods.
The Leonidas system employs non-ionizing radiation and a phased-array antenna for precise energy targeting, allowing for controlled outcomes to minimize collateral damage. This demonstration is part of ongoing U.S. government efforts to develop counter-UAS technologies against evolving threats.
Comments