Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) and U.S. defense technology company Epirus have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance high-power microwave (HPM) counter-unmanned aerial systems capabilities. The partnership, announced January 28, 2026, focuses on developing electromagnetic interference technology designed to disrupt and disable unmanned aircraft electronics.
HPM technology generates electromagnetic pulses that neutralize advanced UAS threats, including emerging challenges posed by fiber-optic and AI-controlled drones. According to the announcement, HPM can address multiple threat types simultaneously, positioning it as a potential solution against increasingly sophisticated unmanned systems.
Technical Collaboration on Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems
The partnership will emphasize technical knowledge exchange and joint testing of HPM system performance across various deployment scenarios. Planned trials include evaluating HPM effectiveness against single UAS targets and coordinated swarm operations in different environmental conditions. This testing framework aims to strengthen Singapore’s counter-electronics capabilities and critical infrastructure protection.
DSTA Chief Executive Ng Chad-Son stated, “As asymmetric threats continue to grow in scale and sophistication, DSTA is committed to exploring novel solutions and ensure that we are prepared for the threats of tomorrow. We look forward to working with innovative partners like Epirus, tapping on their expertise to provide a decisive advantage for the Singapore Armed Forces.”
The collaboration addresses what defense analysts characterize as transforming threat landscapes. Epirus CEO Andy Lowery commented, “Asymmetric threats are transforming warfare across the globe. The threat posed by these mass produceable unmanned systems demands a highly coordinated global response underpinned by advanced one-to-many defense solutions. This partnership with Singapore marks a significant milestone in Epirus’ international expansion into the Indo-Pacific region.”
Epirus’ primary platform, Leonidas, is a software-defined, energy-based HPM system employing intelligent power management to optimize performance. The technology represents a shift toward directed-energy solutions for counter-unmanned aerial systems applications.
The MOU reflects broader industry momentum toward specialized counter-UAS technologies as commercial and military drone operations expand globally. The partnership will contribute technical insights relevant to autonomous systems defense across multiple operational contexts.
More information is available from Epirus’ website.
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Ian McNabb is a journalist focusing on drone technology and lifestyle content at Dronelife. He is based between Boston and NH and, when not writing, enjoys hiking and Boston area sports.
