The Netherlands Ministry of Defence has signed a letter of intent with Australian manufacturer Electro Optic Systems (EOS) to advance works on Apollo High Energy Laser Weapon system for counter-drone defence.
The agreement initiates joint efforts between the Ministry and EOS to further develop the Apollo system, aiming to achieve full operational capability for the Dutch armed forces.
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As part of the letter, both parties will also examine the feasibility of establishing a production facility in the Netherlands, supported by a Dutch-led European supply chain.
EOS has indicated its intention, in principle, to pursue development and manufacturing activities in the Netherlands should the programme advance to operational status.
If confirmed, the Netherlands would house EOS’s European headquarters for the high-energy laser weapon platform.
The Ministry of Defence stated that purchase of a number of Apollo laser systems would be considered following successful development and further assessment.
No definitive procurement quantity or timeline has been disclosed at this stage.
The Apollo High Energy Laser Weapon is designed to counter Group 1–3 uncrewed aerial system (UAS) threats.
According to EOS, the technology offers a scalable laser power range of 50 to 150 kW to destroy or disable drones including targets coordinated in swarms and operating at extended ranges.
The system can be integrated with Nato air defence command and control systems as well as theatre-level integrated air defence systems, supporting deployment within existing defence infrastructures.
EOS stated that Apollo can neutralise more than 20 Group 1 uncrewed aerial threats per minute within its 50m to 3km hard kill range, with a capability to disrupt sensors of coordinated loitering drone groups via an optical sensor denial range extending up to 15km.”
Experienced crews can have the system operational in under two hours after deployment, as its 20ft ISO container design enables straightforward transport and installation.
