U.S. Deploys EAGLE Counter-Drone System to Middle East

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EAGLS Counter-Drone System Deployed in Middle East

U.S. Forces Deploy Advanced Counter-Drone System ⁣in Middle East

Published: ‌2026/01/20 ⁣08:47:36

U.S. Central Command‌ (CENTCOM) has confirmed the operational deployment​ of the Electronic Advanced ​ground Launcher System (EAGLS) in the Middle East, marking a significant step in defending against⁢ the growing threat‍ of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The deployment follows successful testing during the Sky Shield exercise in‌ Kuwait and addresses the increasing vulnerability ⁣of U.S. forces and assets to drone attacks in the region.

What is EAGLS?

EAGLS is a mobile, ground-based counter-drone system developed by MSI Defense Solutions. It’s designed to provide a cost-effective and precise method of neutralizing drone threats.The system utilizes a 70mm rocket launcher firing laser-guided munitions, specifically the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) [https://www.msidefense.com/products/eagls/]. This approach offers a balance between affordability ⁤and‍ accuracy, allowing forces to engage smaller,⁤ slower-moving targets without expending expensive missile interceptors.

Key Features and Capabilities

  • Laser-Guided​ Precision: ⁢The APKWS rockets are ‍guided by a laser, ensuring accurate targeting and minimizing‌ collateral damage.
  • Mobility: EAGLS is vehicle-mounted, enabling rapid deployment ⁤and maneuverability alongside military units.
  • Radar Integration: The system integrates the Leonardo DRS RPS-40 radar ‌ [https://www.drs.com/products/rps-40-radar/], providing target detection at ranges up to 10 kilometers.
  • Electro-Optical/Infrared Sensors: EAGLS incorporates an electro-optical and infrared ⁢sensor turret for visual tracking and target identification.
  • Layered Defense: ‍ EAGLS can operate independently or be integrated into a broader,layered‍ air ⁤defense​ network.

Recent⁣ Developments and Procurement

The U.S. Navy urgently procured five EAGLS systems in April 2024‍ under a $24 million⁤ contract⁤ [https://defence-blog.com/us-navy-buys-eagls-defense-systems/]. This rapid acquisition highlights the immediate need to counter the increasing drone⁣ threat to U.S. forces in the Middle East.The system shares ⁢conceptual similarities with the VAMPIRE system deployed to Ukraine,demonstrating a broader trend toward ​rapidly deployable,precision-guided counter-drone solutions.

Sky Shield Exercise

prior to its operational deployment, EAGLS underwent rigorous testing​ during the Sky⁣ Shield air and missile defense exercise in Kuwait in December 2025.This multinational exercise ⁤focused on integrated air and missile defense capabilities, including the defeat⁣ of UAVs.The successful trials validated the ⁤system’s performance and readiness for real-world operations.

strategic implications

The deployment⁤ of EAGLS represents a shift in U.S.

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