Directed energy weapons (DEWs) are transforming defense technology through systems that deliver precise, rapid, and cost-efficient engagement against a wide range of threats. These advanced solutions utilize focused electromagnetic energy, such as lasers and microwaves, to disable or destroy targets with exceptional accuracy and minimal collateral damage.
The growing demand for high-performance, next-generation defense systems is accelerating investment in DEWs. According to Kings Research, the global directed energy weapons market is projected to reach USD 21.46 billion by 2031, reflecting rising adoption across major defense programs worldwide.
This blog highlights the top 10 companies leading innovation in the DEW market. These organizations are advancing the development of laser, microwave, and electromagnetic weapon systems that are shaping the future of defense and security operations.
What are Directed Energy Weapons?
Directed energy weapons (DEWs) engage and destroy enemy assets and threats by using concentrated electromagnetic energy. High-energy lasers and high-power electromagnetic devices, such as millimeter wave and microwave weapons, are included in this category. DEWs can have advantages like transient and reversible effects, in contrast to conventional weapons. They are able to disable or stop electronic systems without destroying them.
Top 10 Companies in the Directed Energy Weapons Market
1. Lockheed Martin Corporation
Known for its work on laser weapon systems, Lockheed Martin is advancing directed energy technologies with projects like the HELIOS system, which was designed for the U.S. Navy to counter drone threats. They are also working on integrating high-energy lasers into air and ground defense platforms.
In October 2023, Lockheed Martin Corporation was selected by the U.S. Army to develop and deliver up to four 300 kW-class solid-state laser weapon systems for the IFPC-HEL (Indirect Fire Protection Capability-High Energy Laser) prototype program.
2. Boeing
Boeing has developed the "CHAMP" (Counter-electronics High Power Microwave Advanced Missile Project), which uses microwave energy to disable electronic systems. This technology shows promise in directed energy for disabling enemy electronic devices without causing physical harm.
In October 2024, Boeing announced that its Compact Laser Weapon System (CLWS), a 5-kilowatt laser system, successfully engaged and defeated Group 3 uncrewed aerial systems (UASs) (drones weighing up to 600 kg) during the RED SANDS Integrated Experimentation Center Exercise held in Saudi Arabia.
3. Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd
Rafael is one of the leading companies developing advanced laser-based defense systems. Their Iron Beam laser defense system is capable of intercepting short-range threats such as missiles and drones.
In June 2025, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems unveiled the new beam-director variant of the IRON BEAM high-energy laser weapon system in cooperation with the Israeli Ministry of Defense. The upgraded director enhances the system’s operational range, accuracy, and engagement speed, enabling improved interception of aerial threats.
4. Rheinmetall AG
Rheinmetall's latest innovations include laser weapon systems designed to protect military assets. The company is integrating directed energy into its advanced defense solutions, particularly for countering drones and artillery.
In September 2024, Rheinmetall AG and MBDA Deutschland GmbH signed a cooperation agreement to continue their collaboration in the laser weapons sector. The agreement aims to bring a joint maritime drone-defense laser system to the market within five to six years, leveraging their complementary expertise in laser weapon technology.
5. MBDA
MBDA has focused on developing hybrid systems that integrate directed energy with traditional defense capabilities. Their work on laser-guided munitions has shown significant progress in enhancing precision targeting.
In October 2025, MBDA Deutschland GmbH and Rheinmetall AG transferred a laser-weapon demonstrator to the German Armed Forces’ Technical Centre for Weapons and Ammunition (WTD 91) in Meppen, following more than 100 live-firing tests aboard the frigate F124 Sachsen. The system is aimed at use by the German Navy by 2029 and is intended primarily for defense against drones, drone swarms, and light surface threats.
6. RTX (Raytheon Technologies)
RTX has made strides with its High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, focusing on using lasers for missile defense and protection against aerial threats. Their systems are integrated into military air, sea, and ground defense.
In December 2024, Raytheon UK, a division of RTX, announced that its High‑Energy Laser Weapon System (HELWS) was successfully fired by the British Army, engaging and neutralizing moving aerial targets during a trial at a UK Ministry of Defense range in Wales.
7. BAE Systems
BAE is involved in developing both high-power microwave and laser systems for defense applications, with a focus on developing flexible and scalable directed energy solutions for various military platforms.
In July 2025, BAE Systems, in conjunction with SURVICE Engineering and other partners, carried out live-fire trials in which the multi-rotor drone variant TRV‑150 (based on the Malloy T‑150) successfully launched a precision‐guided munition equipped with the APKWS laser‑guidance kit against both aerial and ground targets.
8. Northrop Grumman Corporation
Northrop Grumman is involved in various directed energy projects, including high-powered lasers for missile defense. Their work on directed energy aims to provide robust countermeasures against advanced threats.
In August 2023, Northrop Grumman delivered a miniaturized, 10 kW-class high-energy laser system known as the “Phantom” to the U.S. government. The system is approximately 12 ft³ and weighs less than 200 pounds, enabling two personnel to lift, carry, and install it in tactical scenarios.
9. Elbit Systems Ltd.
Elbit focuses on integrating directed energy into its UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) and other defense systems. They are particularly working on high-powered laser systems for defense against incoming missiles and drones.
10. Honeywell International Inc.
Honeywell is innovating in the field of directed energy with advanced systems aimed at enhancing protection for military and defense systems. Their directed energy solutions focus on air and space defense.
The Role of Innovation in the Growth of Directed Energy Weapons Companies
Innovation is a key driver of growth for companies in the directed energy weapons (DEW) market. Rapid technological advancements are enabling the development of more sophisticated and efficient DEW systems, giving companies a competitive advantage in a dynamic market.
Additionally, innovation is helping companies tackle challenges effectively. By adopting creative strategies, they can lower development costs and ensure compliance with stringent regulations. This proactive approach enables them to navigate obstacles while capitalizing on emerging opportunities in the DEW sector.
Moreover, innovation is unlocking new avenues for growth. Beyond defense applications, DEWs hold potential in various other industries, and companies are leveraging innovative solutions to explore these possibilities. This diversification broadens their offerings and propels their long-term growth. Collectively, these advancements are fueling the expansion of the directed energy weapons market, as nations and defense firms increasingly prioritize next-generation energy-based systems to strengthen national security and strategic deterrence.
Trends in the Directed Energy Weapons Market
The directed energy weapons (DEWs) market is experiencing significant growth and evolution, driven by advancements in technology and increasing defense budgets worldwide. Below are some key trends shaping this market:
- Growing Defense Investments: Nations are allocating more funds for directed energy weapon programs due to their potential for precision targeting, reduced collateral damage, and cost efficiency over traditional munitions. For instance, the U.S. Department of Defense and other countries like China and Russia are heavily investing in DEW development for both offensive and defensive purposes.
- Rising Demand for Laser Weapons: Laser-based DEWs are the most developed category, offering high precision and scalability. They are being integrated into platforms like naval ships, fighter jets, and ground vehicles for applications such as anti-drone, anti-missile, and counter-mortar operations. For instance, Lockheed Martin’s High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical Dazzler and Surveillance (HELIOS) is being tested for naval applications.
- Integration with Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS): With drones becoming a major threat in modern warfare, DEWs are increasingly used to neutralize UAVs. Their speed, precision, and ability to operate silently make them ideal for counter-drone operations. For instance, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems developed the Drone Dome, a laser-based C-UAS system.
- Focus on Non-Lethal Applications: Governments and law enforcement agencies are exploring non-lethal DEWs for crowd control, border security, and vehicle-stopping systems. Microwave weapons and acoustic weapons are examples of technologies gaining traction in this segment.
- Miniaturization and Platform Integration: Advancements in energy storage and generation are enabling the miniaturization of DEWs, making them easier to deploy on smaller platforms like drones and mobile vehicles. This trend is expected to expand their tactical utility.
- Enhanced Power Sources: The development of compact and high-capacity power sources is crucial for scaling DEWs. Technologies like solid-state batteries and compact nuclear power sources are enabling longer operational cycles for these weapons.
- Shift to Autonomous DEWs: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in DEWs is enabling autonomous targeting and operation. AI-driven systems can detect, track, and neutralize threats with minimal human intervention.
These trends indicate a growing reliance on DEWs for modern warfare, emphasizing their role in future military strategies and technological innovations.
Bottom Line
As directed energy weapons continue to evolve, the companies highlighted in this blog are at the forefront of driving advancements in this field. Their cutting-edge technologies promise to revolutionize military operations, providing more efficient, cost-effective, and precise solutions for a wide range of applications. The directed energy weapons market is poised for robust growth as innovation accelerates and defense agencies worldwide adopt these systems to enhance capability, resilience, and tactical advantage. These leading companies will continue to shape the trajectory of this transformative defense segment.
