Australian defense company Electro Optic Systems (EOS) has entered into a binding conditional agreement valued at $80 million to manufacture and deliver its 100-kilowatt high-energy laser weapon system to a customer in South Korea. The export deal highlights growing international demand for directed-energy weapons designed to counter the rising threat posed by unmanned aerial systems.
EOS’ flagship laser solution is engineered to defeat aerial drones using precision beam engagement at the speed of light. According to the company, the system can neutralize multiple targets in less than a minute, with each engagement costing under 10 cents. Individual threats can reportedly be destroyed in two seconds or less, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional air defense interceptors.
As part of the agreement, EOS will establish a joint venture with its Korean partner to develop and supply 100-kilowatt class laser weapons for South Korea’s domestic market. The arrangement includes the licensing of relevant intellectual property to the joint entity, subject to regulatory approvals and contractual conditions. Manufacturing support for the supply order will be provided through EOS’ newly established laser weapons production facility in Singapore.
The contract includes an initial $18 million deposit, a letter of credit for the remaining balance, and customer inspection and acceptance of the Singapore facility, all expected to be completed by January 2026. If contractual conditions are met, EOS anticipates delivering the system to South Korea by the end of 2027, followed by in-country demonstrations. The deal represents EOS’ second export order for its 100-kilowatt laser weapon, following a similar agreement with a Western European customer announced in August 2025.
