The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is investing $10 million in Raytheon to develop a technology that can power an entire drone swarm using ground-based lasers. Under a two-year contract, Raytheon will work on creating an airborne relay system, referred to as “webs,” capable of harvesting, transmitting, and redirecting optical beams. These “webs” will transfer energy from ground sources to high altitudes, enabling precision, long-range operations for unmanned systems. DARPA’s Persistent Optical Wireless Energy Relay (POWER) program aims to revolutionize drone capabilities by eliminating the need for fuel and providing unlimited range and endurance. This technology has the potential to enhance military operations, especially in anti-access aerial denial (A2AD) environments, but it also raises concerns about aerial occupation.

Best Coverage: https://www.defenseone.com/technology/2023/12/darpa-puts-millions-behind-effort-power-drones-ground-based-lasers/392886/