Description
Join Aviation Week's defense experts for Day 2 coverage from Eurosatory, Europe's premier defense exhibition. This episode dives deep into the latest developments in long-range strike capabilities and directed energy weapons that are reshaping modern warfare.
Key Highlights:
Deep Strike Developments Ariane Group unveiled BE Strike, a new family of ground-launched ballistic missiles featuring two variants: a 1,000km and a 2,500km range system. The French-led program is ready for rapid deployment, with the company actively seeking international partnerships.
Directed Energy Revolution After decades of development, high-energy laser weapons are finally transitioning from laboratories to operational deployment:
- Israel's Breakthrough: Rafael delivered the first operational Iron Beam 100kW laser system to the IDF in December, currently being integrated with Iron Dome
- Airborne Lasers Return: Elbit Systems is reviving airborne laser programs, 16 years after the last successful test
- US Innovation: Enlight (formerly Neutronics) is developing an ambitious 1-megawatt solid-state laser using coherent beam combining technology, with demonstrations planned by year-end
- International Expansion: EOS announced a 100kW system for the Netherlands (delivery early 2026) and is finalizing a 300kW system for a Middle Eastern customer
Technical Realities While laser technology shows immense promise, experts emphasize important limitations including duty cycle constraints, atmospheric interference, and the need for integration within layered defense systems. The focus is shifting from maximum range to higher power levels that enable faster target engagement.