Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) has taken a significant step towards bolstering its defence capabilities by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with U.S.-based defence technology company, Epirus. The collaboration aims to explore the potential of high-power microwave (HPM) technology as a countermeasure against unmanned aerial systems (UAS), commonly known as drones.
HPM technology generates electromagnetic interference capable of disrupting and disabling electronic systems. This makes it a powerful tool in neutralising various types of UAS threats, including the increasingly prevalent “dark drones” that operate using fibre-optic or AI-controlled systems. The partnership between DSTA and Epirus will focus on technical knowledge exchange, as well as joint testing and evaluation of HPM systems against different UAS threats in various deployment scenarios.
“As asymmetric threats continue to grow in scale and sophistication, DSTA is committed to exploring novel solutions and ensuring that we are prepared for the threats of tomorrow,” said DSTA’s Chief Executive Ng Chad-Son. “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 will involve trials of HPM solutions against both single and swarm drone threats in diverse environments. This initiative is expected to strengthen Singapore’s capabilities in counter-electronics and critical asset protection, addressing the evolving nature of modern warfare.
Epirus CEO Andy Lowery echoed the sentiment, highlighting the global nature of the threat posed by mass-produceable unmanned systems. “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 defence solutions. This partnership with Singapore marks a significant milestone in Epirus’ international expansion into the Indo-Pacific region.”
The partnership between DSTA and Epirus underscores the importance of international collaboration in developing advanced defence technologies. As drone technology continues to evolve, so too must the strategies and tools used to counter these threats. This collaboration is a proactive measure to ensure that Singapore remains at the forefront of defence innovation, ready to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex security landscape.