Lithuanian photonics company Altechna has been selected for an ambitious initiative aimed at developing Europe’s first fully sovereign 100-kilowatt laser weapon through a project named TALOS-TWO (Tactical Advanced Laser Optical Systems-TWO). The project intends to enhance capabilities across air, ground, and maritime platforms by integrating a powerful directed-energy weapon designed to improve lethality and accuracy.
With a budget of 25 million euros (approximately 27 million dollars), the initiative is funded by the European Defence Fund and is slated for completion by the year 2030. Altechna will contribute its optical expertise to the project, which will feature advanced elements such as dynamic 3D visualization of danger zones, making it a cutting-edge component of modern military operations.
Addressing the need for collective defense in light of recent conflicts at Europe’s borders, Altechna’s chief executive, Antanas Laurutis, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among European nations. “No single country can stand alone in ensuring its defense,” he commented, highlighting the significance of developing sovereign laser-directed energy weapons to enhance Europe’s deterrence against external threats as a unified force.
The TALOS-TWO program is building on the foundation set by its predecessor, the original TALOS initiative, which focused primarily on validating concepts. The current phase is dedicated to the creation of physical demonstrators. This includes developing two high-power 1-micron combined laser sources as well as simulated 2-micron laser combinations.
The project prioritizes three critical areas in its first and second stages: improving defense capabilities, bolstering Europe’s technological and industrial base, and establishing a strategic roadmap for long-term integration. Laurutis expressed that “the continent has taken a decisive step to strengthen its security as a united front,” reinforcing the shift away from previously fragmented national defense efforts. “TALOS-TWO is proof of that,” he asserted.
The initiative involves the collaboration of 21 companies from eight different European countries, including notable firms such as France’s CILAS, Italy’s Leonardo, and Germany’s Rheinmetall. The project also benefits from the contributions of seven research organizations, ensuring a continuous flow of innovation and advancement in the field.
