Los Angeles-based defense technology startup Epirus has raised $250 million in a Series D funding round to further develop its development of high-powered microwave (HPM) systems, designed to neutralize drone swarms. The latest investment- spearheaded by 8VC – with participation from existing and new investors, reflects the increasing confidence in directed energy weapons as a vital part of modern air defense.

Epirus has made significant strides with its flagship system, Leonidas, a high-powered microwave weapon capable of disabling drones mid-flight. The company claims its technology offers a practical, scalable solution to the evolving threat posed by drone swarms, which have been increasingly deployed in military conflicts and asymmetric warfare.

“Drone swarms represent one of the most pressing security challenges of our time. Leonidas provides an immediate and repeatable countermeasure without the logistical burden of traditional kinetic interceptors,” said Epirus CEO Andy Lowery in a statement.

The $250 million funding round underscores a broader shift toward investment in directed energy systems. As adversaries enhance their unmanned aerial capabilities, military planners seek alternatives to costly missile-based defense systems. Leonidas’ ability to neutralize multiple threats simultaneously has drawn interest from the Pentagon and key U.S. allies.

According to Epirus, the newly secured funding will scale production and refine its microwave weapon technology. “With this investment, we are poised to expand our production capacity and accelerate delivery timelines to meet the urgent needs of our partners in defense,” Lowery added.

Epirus’ funding aligns with a broader trend of increased investment in defense tech startups specializing in electronic warfare and counter-drone solutions. The Pentagon has repeatedly emphasized the importance of directed energy weapons, with officials citing their cost-effectiveness compared to traditional missile interceptors.

“We’re witnessing a paradigm shift in air defense, where directed energy is no longer a futuristic concept but an operational necessity,” said 8VC founding partner Joe Lonsdale, highlighting the strategic significance of the investment.

As drone warfare continues to evolve, so does the demand for innovative countermeasures. With its latest funding round, Epirus is positioning itself at the forefront of the directed energy revolution, pushing forward technologies that could redefine the battlefield. The company remains focused on delivering scalable, cost-effective solutions to address the growing threat of drone swarms, ensuring that both military and civilian assets remain protected in an increasingly complex threat landscape.