San Francisco-based Aurelius Systems has unveiled a laser-based anti-drone weapon capable of easily providing aerial protection for autonomous military logistics vehicles. At the recent AUSA 2026 exhibition, Aurelius Systems showcased its Archimedes autonomous laser weapon mounted on the U.S. Rheinmetall's unmanned ground vehicle. Aurelius Systems stated that by combining high-power directed energy lasers, advanced sensors, and artificial intelligence autonomy technology, Archimedes can track, lock onto, and neutralize aerial threats within seconds.
When multiple Archimedes units are deployed, they will form a resilient defense network, providing continuous protection for troops, facilities, and critical infrastructure.
The directed energy anti-drone system offers precise strike capabilities. This system integrates an autonomous ground platform with a directed energy weapon designed to detect, track, and engage small aerial targets. This concept addresses an increasingly important battlefield challenge: how to maintain military operations in the face of persistent surveillance and attacks from low-cost drones targeting traditional supply vehicles and personnel. The directed energy anti-drone system can deliver precise strikes against multiple drone threats. It provides a compact, low SWaP-C platform that reduces costs and logistical burdens compared to traditional systems.
Aurelius Systems' Archimedes System Enhances Military Logistics Security
The system is compact, lightweight, and deployable in the field, designed for rapid deployment without heavy logistical support. It also integrates optical sensing technology with machine learning for real-time detection and targeting, requiring no operator. Aurelius Systems' collaboration with Rheinmetall was announced in July. This partnership combines Aurelius' directed energy platform Archimedes with U.S. Rheinmetall's robotic combat vehicles, aimed at addressing one of the most pressing challenges in modern defense: mobile, cost-effective, and scalable protection against multiple drone threats.
Archimedes will initially be integrated into the Ox unmanned ground vehicle, which is participating in the U.S. Army's Ground Autonomous Transport Competition, aimed at transporting supplies and equipment across rugged terrain. The laser-equipped cargo transport vehicle can self-defend during resupply operations, a role described by Rheinmetall as protecting autonomous logistics missions. Aurelius Systems CEO Michael LaFramboise stated in July, "The battlefield demands mobility, autonomy, and resilience."
By integrating autonomous directed energy with robotic combat vehicles, we are providing enhanced technology capable of operating in the most dangerous environments, helping to protect personnel while improving mission effectiveness." He added, "This collaboration with U.S. Rheinmetall supports future forces' ability to maintain operations in contested environments, reduce risks to personnel, and ensure freedom of movement."