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Raytheon, in a recent US Air Force demonstration, showcased its advanced high-power microwave and high energy laser systems that engaged and defeated multiple unmanned aerial systems targets. The mature HPM (HIgh Power Microwave) and HEL Technologies (High Energy Lasers) offer and affordable solution to the growing UAS threats.

The HEL system, paired with Raytheon's Multi-spectral Targeting System, uses invisible beams of light to defeat hostile UASs. Mounted on a Polaris MRZR all-terrain vehicle, the system detects, identifies, tracks and engages drones. According to Stefan Baur, Raytheon Electronic Warfare Systems VP, countering the drone threat requires diverse solutions. HEL and HPM give frontline operators options for protecting critical infrastructure, convoys and personnel.

Raytheon's HPM uses microwave energy to disrupt drone guidance systems. High power microwave operators can focus the beam to target and instantly defeat drone swarms. With a consistent power supply, an HPM system can provide virtually unlimited protection. After decades of research and investment, the company believes these advanced directed energy applications will soon be ready for the battlefield to help protect people, assets and infrastructure.

Raytheon's HEL and HPM were the only directed energy systems that participated in this Air Force experimentation demonstration. The event expanded on previous directed energy demonstrations such as a U.S. Army directed energy exercise held in 2017.