Among the eleven new projects approved under the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) initiative, the Italian-led program for Direct Energy Systems (DES) stands out.
Italy coordinates the project, which also includes Spain. The program aims to develop a scalable, modular effector based on a Direct Energy Weapon (DEW), which can be installed on any mobile platform.
The project aims to strengthen air and missile defense, focusing on short-range air defense (SHORAD) and ultra-short-range air defense (VSOHRAD), including counter-UAS systems (C-UAS) and counter-artillery and mortar systems (C-RAM), according to the PESCO information sheet. The project’s objectives are:
- Development of a system capable of effectively countering UAS, RAM, stray ammunition, and cruise missiles.
- Integration of scalable high-energy laser technology (10-100 kW power) into mobile platforms to counter various threats.
- Develop a system capable of producing precise and controlled effects, with minimal collateral damage and adaptable to different threat scenarios.
- Ensure the system meets requirements such as magazine depth, cost exchange rate, limited logistical footprint, precision, near-zero collateral damage, and engagement speed.
- Creation of a C3 system integrating threat assessment tools, detection, and weapon assignment to support the DEW system.
- Achieve an adequate level of participation among stakeholders, ensuring interoperability and shared understanding of system usage modes.
Source: Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO)
Photo credit: @DVIDS-US Navy VIRIN 120804-N-ZZ999-002
