Top 10 Dew Companies 2025

Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) represent a transformative shift in modern warfare and defense technology. These weapons leverage highly focused energy, including lasers, microwaves, and particle beams, to neutralize targets with precision and minimal collateral damage. As nations continue to invest heavily in advanced defense systems, the market for DEWs has expanded exponentially. This growth is driven by technological advancements and increased defense spending worldwide.

Top 10 Directed Energy Weapons Companies in 2025

1. Lockheed Martin Corporation

Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, U.S., Lockheed Martin remains a global leader in defense and aerospace, and its work in directed energy is no exception. The company’s Advanced Test High Energy Asset (ATHENA) laser weapon system has demonstrated the ability to neutralize drones and other aerial threats with pinpoint accuracy. The company has successfully tested a 300-kilowatt laser weapon system and deployed laser systems on naval vessels and ground vehicles.

Lockheed has made significant investments in integrating AI with directed energy weapons to obtain enhanced targeting. With annual revenues surpassing UD$ 65 billion along with a robust focus on research and development, Lockheed Martin’s directed energy capabilities are shaping the future of modern warfare.

2. Raytheon Technologies

Raytheon Technologies, headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, U.S., is a pioneer in laser and high-power microwave systems. Its High Energy Laser Weapon System (HELWS) has been deployed in various military exercises, showcasing its ability to effectively counter UAV threats. The company has delivered operational laser weapon systems to the U.S. Air Force.

Raytheon Technologies are working on the integration of directed energy systems with existing radar and missile defense platforms. They have also developed counter-drone systems for urban and battlefield scenarios. Raytheon’s collaboration with global defense agencies ensures its position as a trusted provider of cutting-edge DEW solutions.

3. Northrop Grumman Corporation

Virginia based Northrop Grumman Corporation’s advancements in directed energy are underpinned by its expertise in sensors and integrated defense systems. The company’s laser systems have proven their efficacy in intercepting rockets, artillery, and mortar threats. The business is widely known for developing the Solid-State Laser Technology Maturation (SSL-TM) program for the U.S. Navy.

Northrop Grumman is working on integrating laser systems with autonomous platforms for next-generation combat scenarios. Their prominent focus is on scalable DEW solutions for land, air, and sea applications. With revenues exceeding US$ 39 billion annually, Northrop Grumman remains a cornerstone of the global defense ecosystem.

4. BAE Systems

BAE Systems, based in Farnborough, Hampshire, UK, has made significant strides in the field of directed energy, particularly in laser-based systems for land and naval applications. The company’s High Energy Laser and Integrated Optical-dazzler with Surveillance (HELIOS) system is a testament to its innovative approach in the direct energy weapon market.

The business is widely famous for its collaboration with the UK Ministry of Defence on laser weapon prototypes. Their key focus is on integrating DEWs with electronic warfare systems. BAE Systems are working on the development of compact and portable DEWs for ground forces. As one of the largest defense contractors globally, BAE Systems continues to invest heavily in the future of energy-based weaponry.

5. Boeing Defense, Space & Security

Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, U.S., Boeing’s contributions to the directed energy sector are characterized by its focus on high-energy laser systems and their integration with aerospace platforms. The company’s Compact Laser Weapon System (CLWS) is designed for mobile and flexible deployment. It has successfully tested the CLWS in counter-drone operations.

Boeing’s collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense on advanced DEW programs is widely popular. Their key focus is on scalable solutions for both offensive and defensive applications. Boeing’s expertise in aviation and space technologies provides a unique edge in the development of directed energy solutions.

6. General Atomics

General Atomics, based in San Diego, California, U.S., is a leader in high-power electromagnetic and laser technologies. Its emphasis on railguns and high-energy laser systems has positioned it as a key player in the DEW market. They are famous for the development of the High Energy Liquid Laser Area Defense System (HELLADS).

The company has led innovations in autonomous targeting and tracking systems. General Atomics collaboration with international defense agencies for joint development projects. General Atomics’ focus on disruptive technologies ensures its relevance in the evolving defense landscape.

7. Thales Group

Headquartered in Paris, France, the Thales Group has established itself as a prominent player in directed energy weapons, particularly within the European defense market. The company’s work focuses on integrating laser systems with air defense and naval platforms. Its collaboration with the French government on laser weapon development is a key highlight in its portfolio.

Thales Group has an expertise in counter-drone and anti-missile technologies. They are Woking on the development of compact laser systems for urban defense scenarios. With a strong focus on innovation, Thales continues to lead in the European directed energy sector.

8. Rafael Advanced Defense Systems

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, based in Haifa, Israel, is famous for its Iron Beam system, a laser-based air defense solution that has garnered global attention for its effectiveness against rockets and drones. The company’s expertise in DEWs complements its renowned missile defense systems. It can successfully intercept aerial threats using the Iron Beam.

Rafaels’s collaboration with international partners for system exports and continuous upgrades to enhance range and power. Rafael’s contributions to directed energy are critical to the defense strategies of both Israel and its global allies.

9. MBDA

France based MBDA, a European missile systems company, is advancing directed energy technologies as part of its broader defense portfolio. The company’s work emphasizes integration with missile defense systems for comprehensive protection. Its development of laser-based interceptors for short-range threats is a key achievement.

MBDA has collaborated with European defense agencies on joint DEW projects. Their prominent focus is on modular and scalable systems for varied applications. MBDA’s strategic collaborations and innovative designs position it as a leader in the DEW domain.

10. Kratos Defense & Security Solutions

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, headquartered in California, U.S., specializes in advanced systems for unmanned and directed energy applications. Its work in microwave and laser technologies addresses emerging threats in modern warfare. The company is widely known for the development of high-power microwave systems for counter-UAV applications.

Its integration of DEWs with autonomous platforms for enhanced flexibility is a key achievement. Kartos has also collaborated with the U.S. Department of Defense on experimental projects. The company’s focus on affordability and rapid deployment makes it a significant player in the DEW market.

Leading Directed Energy Weapons Companies to Set Benchmarks for Operational Excellence

As the demand for precision and efficiency in defense systems grows, directed energy weapons are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of warfare. The top companies in this sector are not only advancing the technology but also setting benchmarks for innovation and operational excellence.

With global defense spending projected to exceed US$ 2.3 trillion by 2030, the directed energy market will remain a critical area of investment and development. These ten companies are leading the charge, ensuring that military forces worldwide are equipped with state-of-the-art capabilities to address evolving threats.

By monitoring the advancements of these industry leaders, stakeholders can gain valuable insights into the trajectory of the directed energy weapons market and its transformative impact on global security.