The Compact Laser Weapon System (CLWS), or CLaWS, uses a versatile and portable directed energy design to counter the growing threat of drones and other unmanned aircraft.

The state-of-the-art, modular system is equipped with a beam director and acquisition, tracking and pointing software.

It emits a concentrated laser beam that targets and burns through a drone's structure, causing it to crash from a distance of 200 meters to 2.5km.

This method of neutralization is not only cost effective but also minimizes collateral damage, making it ideal for use in both urban and battlefield environments.

CLWS is notable for its portability and ease of use. Operators have mastered the system with as little as one hour of training.

Designed to be operated and transported by a single warfighter, the CLWS can be configured for both stationary and mobile operations, making it adaptable to various combat scenarios.

The system in 2020-2021 received upgrades that increased its maximum beam power and reliability, providing enhanced protection against larger and more numerous threats at greater range, as well as enabling it to defeat threats more quickly and efficiently.

Proven in extensive testing

CLWS has defeated more than 400 drones in numerous demonstrations, scenarios and environments, according to its manufacturer.

The US Army, Air Force and Marines have used it in numerous test exercises and deployments over the last five years.

The first batch of CLWS was delivered to the US Marine Corps in 2018, and the system became the first ground-based laser approved for use by warfighters on the ground in 2019.

The US Air Force in 2020 conducted a demonstration in which CLWS defended a force protection convoy against unmanned aerial systems while mounted on a ground vehicle.