EOS, Netherlands sign letter of intent for Apollo laser production, deployment

The parties will also explore the opportunity to establish a production facility in the Netherlands, supported by a Dutch-led European supply chain.

Under the intended arrangements, EOS would carry out production in the Netherlands. In addition, subject to further work, the Netherlands Ministry of Defence intends to purchase a number of laser weapon systems.

State Secretary for Defence Derk Boswijk signed the letter of intent with Electro Optic Systems late last week, covering the Apollo laser technology designed for counter-drone defence.

“The so-called high energy laser is a system that converts energy into a high-power laser beam that has proven very effective against drones. Because the availability and supply of ammunition are not concerns, this weapon can be more effective and cost-efficient than kinetic air defence using, for example, missiles. This will make the high energy laser a valuable addition to air defence,” said a statement from the Netherlands MOD (translated).

“Defence and EOS intend to further develop the high energy laser into a fully-fledged weapon system. Both parties will also investigate the possibility of establishing a production site with a Dutch-led European supply chain.

“The Australian company intends, in principle, to carry out development and production in the Netherlands. This will make the Netherlands the European headquarters for EOS.

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“Upon successful further development, the intention is for the Netherlands to purchase a number of laser systems.”

In separate news earlier this month, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed a new strategic partnership with the Netherlands.

“Australia and the Netherlands are moving forward, together. We’ve just taken our relationship to the next level with a new strategic partnership,” he said.

“More trade and economic investment. Increasing defence cooperation. Boosting our climate security. We're getting things done with partners from around the world to deliver for Australians back home.”

Robert Dougherty

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Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.

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