IPG Photonics to Debut New Field-Ready Laser Defense System for Counter-UAS Applications at DSEI UK 2025 in London

Rhea-AI Summary

IPG Photonics (NASDAQ:IPGP) has announced the debut of its CROSSBOW™ MINI 3 kW high-energy laser defense system at DSEI UK 2025. The system is designed for counter-unmanned aerial systems (UAS) applications and will be showcased from September 9-12, 2025, in London.

The CROSSBOW product line includes the MINI 500 W Dazzler (available now) and the upcoming MINI 8 kW HEL system. The 3 kW model operates up to 12 hours on internal battery power and has successfully neutralized over 100 drones in field testing. Notably, Lockheed Martin has integrated CROSSBOW into their Sanctum™ C-UAS solution, demonstrating its effectiveness in four field exercises.

Insights

Defense Technology Analyst

IPG's CROSSBOW laser defense system marks strategic expansion into complete defense solutions, with Lockheed Martin integration boosting market potential.

IPG Photonics is strategically expanding from component supplier to complete system provider with their new CROSSBOW MINI laser defense system. This patent-pending counter-UAS solution represents a significant product diversification that could open substantial revenue opportunities in the growing $7+ billion counter-drone market.

The technical specifications are impressive - the 3kW system can neutralize Group 1 and 2 drones with 12-hour battery operation. What's particularly noteworthy is the scalability of the product line, which includes a 500W Dazzler (available now) and a more powerful 8kW system (taking pre-orders). This tiered approach allows IPG to address different market segments and price points.

The Lockheed Martin integration is perhaps the most significant aspect of this announcement. Having a Tier 1 defense contractor adopt the technology validates IPG's solution and creates a potential high-volume channel partner. The successful field demonstration neutralizing over 100 drones in realistic scenarios, including swarm attacks, demonstrates market readiness.

This product launch represents IPG's strategic evolution from selling laser components to offering complete defense systems with integrated software, optics, and lasers. This higher-margin business model could significantly improve IPG's revenue profile if adoption scales as intended. The timing aligns with increased global defense spending on counter-drone capabilities across both military and civilian applications.

MARLBOROUGH, Mass., Aug. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- IPG Photonics, the global leader in fiber laser technology, proudly announces the first public display of the CROSSBOW™ MINI 3 kW high-energy laser (HEL) system at Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) UK from September 9^th through 12^th, 2025. IPG CROSSBOW MINI is a patent-pending, compact field-ready laser defense system engineered to counter the escalating threat of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Designed for immediate deployment and scalable integration, CROSSBOW marks a transformative leap in directed-energy defense.

The Power to Protect

CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW HEL, featured at DSEI UK, is optimized to neutralize Group 1 and 2 drones with unmatched precision. The CROSSBOW product line also includes CROSSBOW MINI 500 W Dazzler, which is available now, and pre-orders are being taken for the higher-power CROSSBOW MINI 8 kW HEL system.

CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW HEL operates up to 12 hours on internal battery power and for extended missions with external power supplies. CROSSBOW systems can operate as a stand-alone laser defense system offering advanced tracking and engagement capabilities. In addition, single or multiple CROSSBOW systems can seamlessly integrate with existing command and control networks and radar platforms allowing for distributed protection of critical assets. CROSSBOW systems feature stowable beam directors, are easily transportable via commercial transport, and are capable of rapid deployment.

For Military and Civilian Defense from Drones

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

Following successful demonstrations in the field, 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 Innovation Delivers Turnkey Laser Defense System

“The CROSSBOW product line establishes IPG as a complete laser defense systems provider,” said Ben Allison, VP of IPG Defense Products. “It transitions us from a component supplier to a full solution partner, delivering top-tier software, optics, and lasers in a single operational package while leveraging our extensive manufacturing capabilities and laser expertise.”

Lockheed Martin Integrates CROSSBOW Into Their Sanctum™ C-UAS Solution

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 modern battlespace demands integrated and layered defense against small UAS,” said Tyler Griffin, Lockheed Martin’s C-UAS Director. “To address this need, Lockheed Martin developed the Sanctum C-UAS ecosystem with end-to-end capability to detect, track, identify and defeat small UAS. Sanctum features a scalable, modular architecture, and these core design principles were proven during our recent integration with IPG’s CROSSBOW.”

CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW HEL will debut publicly on September 09, 2025 at DSEI UK in London.

About IPG Photonics Corporation
IPG Photonics Corporation is the leader in high-power fiber lasers and amplifiers used primarily in materials processing and other diverse applications. The Company’s mission is to develop innovative laser solutions making the world a better place. IPG accomplishes this mission by delivering superior performance, reliability, and usability at a lower total cost of ownership compared with other types of lasers and non-laser tools, allowing end users to increase productivity and decrease costs. IPG is headquartered in Marlborough, Massachusetts and has more than 30 facilities worldwide.

For more information, visit IPG-CROSSBOW.com

Contact
Dr. Ben Allison
VP, IPG Defense Products
508-373-1100
ballison@IPGPhotonics.com

FAQ

What is IPG Photonics' new CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW laser defense system?

The CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW is a compact field-ready high-energy laser defense system designed to counter unmanned aerial systems (UAS). It can neutralize Group 1 and 2 drones and operates up to 12 hours on internal battery power.

When will IPG Photonics showcase the CROSSBOW system at DSEI UK 2025?

IPG Photonics will debut the CROSSBOW MINI 3 kW HEL system at DSEI UK in London from September 9-12, 2025.

What are the different models in the CROSSBOW product line?

The CROSSBOW product line includes the MINI 500 W Dazzler (currently available), the MINI 3 kW HEL (being debuted), and the upcoming MINI 8 kW HEL system.

How has Lockheed Martin integrated IPGP's CROSSBOW system?

Lockheed Martin has selected CROSSBOW as the laser weapon system for their Sanctum C-UAS architecture and has successfully demonstrated its effectiveness in four unique field exercises.

What applications is the CROSSBOW system designed for?

CROSSBOW is designed to protect military installations, government buildings, public arenas, port complexes, and other critical infrastructure from drone incursions and attacks, including both military and private operations.