Microwave Weapon Successfully Takes Down 49 Drones in One Powerful Blast

Incredible Anti-Drone Weaponry: The Power of Epirus Leonidas

Leonidas’ Revolutionary Approach in the Anti-Drone Fight

In a groundbreaking demonstration of advanced microwave technology, the Epirus Leonidas directed energy, high-power microwave (HPM) weapon effectively neutralized 49 Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) with a single pulse. This showcases the strength and sophistication of using microwaves in anti-drone warfare, marking a significant milestone in defense technology.

The Rising Threat of Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles

Drones have become a prominent concern in both military and civilian sectors due to their small size, allowing them to emerge from unseen angles, and their cost-effectiveness, enabling deployment in large numbers. These factors make them a potential risk not only in military scenarios but also as a hazard to civilian aviation when misused by reckless individuals.

Microwave Weapons: A Vital Part of Defense Strategy

To counter these threats, a variety of anti-drone weapons are being developed. These tools vary in functionality, with each type providing specific advantages suited to different situations, often necessitating a layered defense approach. Among these, rather than being a silver bullet, microwave weapons like the Leonidas offer a robust solution when integrated into broader defense systems.

Innovation Through Gallium Nitride Technology

Epirus has enhanced traditional microwave weapon design by replacing outdated magnetron vacuum tubes with Gallium Nitride (GaN) semiconductors. This innovation results in systems that are more compact, durable, and energy-efficient, without sacrificing power.

Advanced Features of Leonidas

• Software Customization: Allows tailoring of waveforms for optimized performance while remaining safe for humans nearby.
• Increased Range: Doubles the range compared to the 2022 model.
• Operational Flexibility: Capable of engaging multiple targets with precision, creating no-fly zones, and taking down swarms with minimal collateral damage.

Live Demonstration at Camp Atterbury

On August 26, 2025, at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, Leonidas showcased its formidable capabilities to an exclusive audience. The demonstration included disabling 61 drones successfully, including two groups of approaching drones, selecting and neutralizing designated targets, and safely dropping drones into predetermined zones. In a stunning finale, Leonidas neutralized over four dozen drones with a single pulse, illustrating its unmatched efficiency in dealing with swarms.

Industry Impact and Future Prospects

Epirus CEO, Andy Lowery, hailed the demonstration as a pivotal moment for the company, emphasizing that their technology represents a singular solution to swarming drone threats. The event underscored Leonidas as a mission-capable asset in modern defense strategies, capable of seamlessly managing one-to-many engagements.

As Emegypt reported, this breakthrough undeniably positions Epirus as a leader in anti-drone technology, offering a glimpse into the future of defense with its state-of-the-art capabilities in electromagnetic interference and microwave weaponry.