Electro Optic Systems (EOS) has secured an $80-million conditional export agreement to supply its 100-kilowatt high-energy laser weapon to a South Korean customer, strengthening Australia’s footprint in the global directed-energy defense market. The agreement reflects increasing interest in laser-based air defense systems as militaries seek cost-efficient solutions to counter drone threats.
The EOS laser weapon is designed to engage unmanned aerial targets with rapid, precise beam strikes. The company says the system can defeat multiple drones in under a minute, with individual engagements costing less than 10 cents and neutralization times of two seconds or less. These capabilities position the system as a highly efficient option for short-range air defense against low-cost aerial threats.
Beyond the initial supply contract, EOS plans to form a joint venture with a local Korean partner to develop and manufacture 100-kilowatt laser systems for South Korea’s domestic market. The arrangement includes licensing EOS intellectual property to the joint venture, pending regulatory clearance and milestone achievements. Production activities linked to the export order will be supported by EOS’ new laser weapons manufacturing hub in Singapore.
Under the agreement, the customer will provide an $18-million upfront payment, followed by milestone-based payments secured through a letter of credit, with full refund provisions in case of non-performance. EOS expects regulatory approvals and facility acceptance to be completed by early 2026, with system delivery targeted for late 2027. The South Korean contract marks the company’s second international sale of its 100-kilowatt class laser weapon, following a previous export deal announced in 2025.
