U.S. Air Force Awards Leidos $27M to Build Anti-Drone System Prototype

The U.S. Air Force awarded Leidos Inc. a contract worth $27 million to develop a counter unmanned aerial system (cUAS) prototype.

This contract calls for the development of a mature prototype based on the first-generation technology demonstrator, high-power microwave (HPM) cUAS prototype, as per a DoD release issued today.

Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) completed a successful Tactical High Power Microwave Operational Responder (THOR) program developing a counter-drone technology for airbase defense. Leidos staff led the design, development, and testing of the HPM source for this system, and supported the source operation and maintenance throughout the THOR system test and evaluation.

THOR provides non-kinetic defeat of multiple targets in a compact system that is easily transportable to theater by ground or by air in a C-130. Upon placement, THOR is operational in a matter of hours and requires minimal training. System advantages include low operating costs, a deep magazine, and connectivity with existing base C2 systems to work in conjunction with other defensive measures.