Australia-based Electro Optic Systems Holdings Limited (EOS) has announced two new firm orders for counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) capabilities with a combined value of USD45 million, underscoring continued demand for counter-drone solutions amid evolving threat environments. The largest contract, valued at USD42 million, covers the delivery of EOS’s Slinger remote weapon system (RWS), alongside associated cannons, platform integration, spares, training, and support elements. The company stated that the systems are intended to enhance national air defence capabilities in response to intensifying regional security challenges. The order was placed by an undisclosed Middle Eastern customer through a major defence prime contractor with established domestic and export portfolios.
EOS noted that the identities of both the end user and contracting entity remain confidential due to national security considerations. The contract remains subject to standard conditions, including export approvals from both Australia and the United States. Manufacturing is expected to take place in Australia, with deliveries scheduled throughout 2026. EOS indicated that the programme may require adjustments to its production planning across 2026–27. The Slinger RWS is positioned by the company as a cannon-based counter-UAS solution designed to defeat small unmanned aerial threats, reflecting a broader trend toward layered air defence architectures incorporating kinetic effectors.
Separately, EOS’s US subsidiary has secured additional contracts worth USD3 million to support integration activities for a counter-drone weapon system. Details regarding the platform, customer, and end user have not been disclosed, citing operational sensitivity. The customer is described as an established US defence contractor. As with the Middle East order, production will be undertaken in Australia, with completion anticipated in 2026. EOS stated that it continues to engage with multiple Middle Eastern governments regarding the potential procurement of advanced C-UAS capabilities. These discussions include not only the Slinger RWS, but also the company’s APOLLO High-Energy Laser Weapon family of directed-energy systems and related infrastructure protection solutions. While the company assesses that ongoing regional conflicts may accelerate procurement timelines, it cautioned that no additional contracts have yet been finalised.
