IPG Photonics Unveils CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW Laser Defense System for Counter-UAS Applications

IPG Photonics unveils the CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW high-energy laser system for counter-UAS applications. The system will be showcased at DSEI UK 2025 in London. Lockheed Martin integrates CROSSBOW into their Sanctum C-UAS solution, demonstrating its effectiveness. The CROSSBOW system boasts advanced tracking and engagement capabilities and offers scalable, cost-effective protection for military installations and critical infrastructure.

IPG Photonics has announced the debut of its CROSSBOW™ MINI 3 kW high-energy laser (HEL) system at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) UK event from September 9 to 12, 2025. This compact and field-ready laser defense system is specifically designed to counter the rising threat of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and can efficiently neutralize Group 1 and 2 drones.

The CROSSBOW™ MINI 3 kW system is part of IPG Photonics' product line, which also includes the CROSSBOW MINI 500 W Dazzler and a higher 8 kW version available for pre-order. The system operates up to 12 hours on internal battery power and can utilize external power supplies for extended missions. It is designed for both military and civilian applications, such as protecting critical infrastructure from drone threats.

Lockheed Martin has already incorporated the CROSSBOW system into their Sanctum C-UAS solution, further illustrating its effectiveness in real-world scenarios. Successful field demonstrations have shown the neutralization of over 100 drones, highlighting the system's operational reliability.

Potential positives include IPG Photonics' enhanced visibility in the defense sector by showcasing the CROSSBOW™ MINI 3 kW system at a prominent defense exhibition. The system addresses a significant and growing market need for advanced defense technology. The integration of CROSSBOW into Lockheed Martin's Sanctum C-UAS solution establishes a strategic partnership with a major player in the defense industry.

Potential negatives include concerns about IPG Photonics' capabilities in system integration and project management compared to established defense contractors. The introduction of new products may elevate risks if the products do not gain market acceptance or face operational challenges.

The CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW HEL system is a patent-pending, compact field-ready laser defense system engineered to counter the escalating threat of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). It is designed for immediate deployment and scalable integration, marking a transformative leap in directed-energy defense. The system is optimized to neutralize Group 1 and 2 drones with unmatched precision.

The CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW HEL operates up to 12 hours on internal battery power and for extended missions with external power supplies. It can operate as a stand-alone laser defense system offering advanced tracking and engagement capabilities. Single or multiple CROSSBOW systems can seamlessly integrate with existing command and control networks and radar platforms, allowing for distributed protection of critical assets.

Real-world applications for this laser defense system include both military and private operations to defend high-value assets from drone incursions and attacks. Military installations, government buildings, public arenas, port complexes, and other critical infrastructure are just a few examples of locations where CROSSBOW provides scalable and cost-effective counter-UAS protection.

Field-proven and operator-friendly, the CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW HEL has already neutralized over 100 drones in realistic scenarios, including single and swarm attacks. Unlike complex alternatives, CROSSBOW systems enable turnkey reliability that operators can deploy and maintain without extensive specialized training.

IPG Photonics aims to redefine its role as a complete laser defense systems provider with this latest offering. The CROSSBOW product line establishes IPG as a full solution partner, delivering top-tier software, optics, and lasers in a single operational package while leveraging its extensive manufacturing capabilities and laser expertise.

Lockheed Martin has selected the IPG CROSSBOW as the laser weapon system for integration into their Sanctum C-UAS architecture and has demonstrated its effectiveness at four unique field exercises, showcasing a ready-now capability to address the threat of small UAS affordably, effectively, and at scale.

The CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW HEL will debut publicly on September 9, 2025, at DSEI UK in London.

References:
[1] https://www.quiverquant.com/news/IPG+Photonics+Unveils+CROSSBOW%E2%84%A2+MINI+3+kW+High-Energy+Laser+System+at+DSEI+UK+for+Counter-Drone+Solutions