Leonidas vs. Drones: A Game-Changer in High-Speed Combat

Washington: In recent times, the use of drones in warfare has rapidly increased. Amidst the growing popularity of drones as an effective weapon, an American company has made a significant claim. A company based in Torrance, California, named Epirus, has developed a powerful weapon specifically designed to target and destroy drones. This weapon, called “Leonidas,” is a high-power microwave (HPM) weapon. The company claims that it can destroy a swarm of up to 100 drones in one go. If this claim proves true, it could bring a major shift in warfare strategies worldwide.

How Leonidas Works

According to a report by Eurasian Times, the Leonidas system releases an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) that disables drones. This weapon is capable of targeting multiple drones at once. The system has been described as a “shield-like” technology, not only capable of destroying drones but also able to target electronic systems of ground vehicles and naval ships.

The Growing Threat of Drones in Warfare

The company argues that drones have become a major threat in modern warfare. Traditional weapons like missiles or anti-aircraft guns are not effective against drones because drones fly at high speeds and in large numbers. Leonidas, using directed energy technology, can overcome this challenge. It has the ability to destroy multiple drones at once and can be used repeatedly at a lower cost.

High-Power Microwave (HPM) Technology

The Leonidas system uses HPM (high-power microwave) technology, which generates electromagnetic waves ranging from 300 MHz to 300 GHz. These waves send electrical pulses through the drone’s circuits, damaging them. HPM technology can affect a large area, making it possible to target a group of drones or even an entire swarm.

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Advanced Features of the Leonidas System

The Leonidas system is a prime example of Epirus’s solid-state HPM technology. Although the company has not provided much information about the system, based on public knowledge of HPM principles, it can be inferred that the system includes solid-state amplifiers that generate microwave signals. These signals are then transmitted through an antenna, allowing operators to target specific locations or objects.

Targeting and Control System

The Leonidas platform features advanced targeting and control systems, including radar or optical sensors that track drones. Additionally, the system uses software to determine which drone to target first. Since HPM beams travel at the speed of light, the system operates rapidly. Moreover, the system can distinguish between friendly and enemy drones, reducing the risk of mistakenly destroying one’s own drones.