Applied Energetics achieves first multi-drone camera defeat

Applied Energetics (AERG) announced a major milestone in its Battle Lab: the defeat of four drone-mounted cameras in rapid succession using its early prototype Pulsed Laser Air Defense system. During the demonstration conducted on August 20, 2025, the system neutralized four separate drones in just four seconds, marking the first multi-drone “camera kills” in AE’s development program. Test imagery shows the live feed disruption and sensor defeat effects achieved in real time. “This demonstration highlights the disruptive potential of our ultrashort pulse laser systems for counter-UAS missions,” said Chris Donaghey, CEO. “Neutralizing four drones in four seconds is an extraordinary step forward in proving the real-world effects of our pulsed-laser platform. Our team continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, translating lab-scale breakthroughs into decisive operational capabilities. Our vision, ‘Direct Energy Anywhere,’ is embodied in this early prototype and milestone, advancing our mission to deliver decisive effects at tactically relevant ranges, all within an optimized size, weight, and power profile that enables integration and deployment across any platform or battlefield environment.”