This laser can take down a drone in mid-flight with impressive precision

The Australian Army is innovating with the Fractl, a laser weapon capable of neutralizing drones in mid-flight. This system, developed by AIM Defence, could redefine how the military deals with aerial threats.


Drones, whether small or large, pose a significant challenge for armed forces today. Heavily used in recent conflicts, notably in Ukraine, they require effective and economical neutralization solutions. In this context, the Australian Army tested the Fractl, a portable laser capable of taking down a drone in mid-flight with impressive precision.

During trials conducted in the Puckapunyal military zone in Victoria, the Fractl demonstrated its ability to shoot down a drone at a distance of 0.62 miles (1,000 meters) while it was flying at 62 mph (100 km/h). This system uses a laser beam the size of a dime to reach its target.

A single press of a button allows the computer to take over and precisely aim at different parts of the drone, such as the camera or the propellers. Conventional systems, by comparison, require a large amount of ammunition for less reliable results. Soldier Patrick Flanagan, who participated in the tests, described the experience as "like a video game": "You press one button to track the drone, then another to fire."

Melbourne AIM Defence designed this laser, which uses less energy than it takes to boil a kettle. The weapon can operate both on battery and mains power, offering flexibility in the field. This technology can be used almost infinitely as long as it is supplied with energy, making it a particularly economical solution compared to conventional weapons.


Warrant Officer Class Two (WO2) Eli Lea from the Robotic and Autonomous Systems Implementation and Coordination Office (RICO) emphasized the importance of this type of technology for the future of armed forces: "Directed energy weapons like the Fractl offer a solution with an 'infinite magazine' as long as there is power. Modern fire control systems, specifically designed to track and engage drones, are indispensable."

Lessons from recent conflicts, particularly in Ukraine, indicate that drones are a real threat and it is essential to develop suitable tools to counter them effectively. The Fractl could well become one of those indispensable tools on tomorrow's battlefields.