american company IPG Photonicsannounced that it will unveil ‘Crossbow Mini HEL’, a high-power small laser for responding to small drones, at Singapore Airshow 2026.
This information was revealed through an official press release issued by the company to investors.
According to IPG Photonics, the Crossbow Mini HEL was developed as a low-cost engagement solution to counter growing drone threats, particularly cooperative swarm attacks. The system uses directed energy to neutralize lightweight aerial targets, reducing reliance on conventional munitions.
Performance and Usage
According to the company, this anti-UAV laser can destroy drones belonging to groups 1 and 2 with a maximum takeoff weight of 25 kg and an operating altitude of up to 1,000 meters. The system can operate autonomously or in conjunction with multiple laser devices, and can expand defense range and durability.
The Crossbow Mini HEL is designed for the defense of critical infrastructure such as military bases, government buildings, industrial facilities, and port complexes.
Two output versions
The system is available in two configurations:
- Basic type (3kW): Maximum effective range of 1,300 meters, operation time of approximately 35 minutes when using built-in battery.
- Enhanced type (8kW): Extends range to approximately 2,500 meters, but reduces operating time to 15 minutes.
Both versions are equipped with electro-optical sensors, including day and thermal imaging cameras, allowing target detection and tracking. It also supports target designation through external data, such as radar integrated into the air defense network.
Integration with large systems
Lockheed Martin has integrated the Crossbow system into its counter-drone architecture, Sanctum, and demonstrated its effectiveness in four separate field exercises, Defense Industry Europe reports.
The unveiling of the Crossbow Mini HEL at Singapore Airshow 2026 highlights the trend of adopting directed energy weapons as a practical and scalable countermeasure to the proliferation of low-cost drones on the modern battlefield.
Sources and images: IPG Photonics (Investor Relations). This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed by our editorial team.
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U.S. unveils compact laser to counter small drones at Singapore Airshow 2026 U.S.-based IPG Photonics announced it will showcase the Crossbow Mini HEL, a compact high-energy laser designed to counter small drones, at the Singapore Airshow 2026. Source and images: IPG Photonics (Investor Relations)
