This giant microwave may change the future of war

technologyreview.comPublished: 5/29/2025

Summary

Epirus, a defense startup with ties to legendary tech companies like Raytheon, is revolutionizing the way weapons are developed and purchased by using faster production methods and cutting-edge materials like gallium nitride to create more efficient microwaves. Unlike traditional, decades-long contracts tied to research grants, Epirus focuses on rapid prototyping and iterative improvements, learning from feedback and refining its designs with each test. This new model aims to drastically reduce costs while maintaining effectiveness—potentially offering a game-changing alternative to outdated systems like the T-41 radar, which has been in use for decades.