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 9th through 12th, 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.
Also Read: Peraton and Okta Collaborate with U.S. DoD to Advance myAuth
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.”
SOURCE: GlobeNewswire