This new contract follows the delivery of four initial IFPC-HPM prototypes to the Army in May 2024. The Generation II (GEN II) systems are designed as a significant upgrade, directly incorporating feedback from soldiers who tested the first-generation technology in a series of developmental tests and live-fire exercises.
Andy Lowery, CEO of Epirus, stated that the initial prototypes were rigorously tested with “favorable outcomes.” He emphasized the growing threat from unmanned aerial systems, citing drone incursions over U.S. bases and the southern border, as well as their prevalent use in overseas conflicts. “Epirus is prepared to answer the Army’s call and rapidly produce at scale to help solve the asymmetric drone threat with our HPM technology,” Lowery said.
The GEN II systems are engineered for a substantial performance leap over their predecessors. Key enhancements are projected to more than double the maximum effective range and increase power output by 30 percent. The new systems will also integrate high-density batteries for extended operation with less reliance on external power.
Further technical improvements include extra-long pulse widths to maximize energy on target, a high-duty burst mode for engaging multiple threats faster, and advanced waveform techniques to increase lethality against a wider array of targets. The design also incorporates soldier usability enhancements based on prior field experience.
This next phase will allow the Army RCCTO to validate the system’s enhanced performance through detailed assessments. The data gathered will help shape future requirements for a potential permanent Program of Record and support the Army’s broader initiative to integrate directed-energy weapons into its operational portfolio.
