BAE Systems pitches new High Power Microwave system to the U.S. defense market

BAE Systems unveiled a High Power Microwave counter-drone system at AUSA 2026 for the U.S. defense market. The directed-energy weapon is designed to disrupt or destroy drone electronics, with the company proposing protection of critical installations and maneuver forces against massed unmanned-aircraft attacks. Its modular architecture accommodates fixed-site, towed, combat-vehicle and maritime configurations, and BAE says it can continue engaging while electrical power remains available without consuming conventional ammunition. The announcement introduces an industrial offering rather than a procurement award, and does not state engagement range, power output, customer quantities or an operational deployment schedule.