Directed Energy Weapons Market Size

Directed Energy Weapons Market Size

The global directed energy weapons market was valued at USD 6.7 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 17.6% from 2025 to 2034.

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Governments worldwide are investing in advanced defense technologies to enhance national security and maintain military superiority. Directed energy weapons, including laser and microwave-based systems, are becoming essential components of modern military arsenals. These weapons provide precise, scalable, and cost-effective solutions with advantages such as rapid targeting, minimal ammunition costs, and the ability to neutralize multiple threats simultaneously such as drone threats, missiles, etc.
 

For instance, Raytheon UK, in collaboration with the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and Defence equipment and support (DE&S), completed the first UK test of its high-energy laser weapon system (HELWS) mounted on a British army wolfhound armored vehicle. This test, conducted at full power, is part of the UK Ministry of Defence's land laser directed energy weapon (LDEW) demonstrator program. The initiative addresses the increasing drone threats through counter-UAS (unmanned aerial systems) technology. The HELWS, which targets NATO class 1 drones, integrates with current air defense systems, including radar and command platforms, demonstrating advances in directed energy weapon technology.

The growing threats from drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) drive directed energy weapons market growth. The widespread adoption and technological advancement of drones have increased security risks, as these devices are used for surveillance, smuggling, and armed attacks. Leonardo DRS and BlueHalo successfully demonstrated a new Counter Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) Directed Energy Stryker vehicle designed to defeat Group 1-3 drones.
 

During a live-fire demonstration for U.S. Army officials in Socorro, New Mexico, the system used BlueHalo's 26kW LOCUST Laser Weapon System to destroy multiple drones. The event also featured simultaneous engagements with both the laser and a 30mm remote weapon station. The C-UAS DE Stryker successfully neutralized all drones over the two-day test, showcasing its effectiveness as an advanced, mobile counter-drone solution.