Ukrainian company Fulltime Robotics has presented a working prototype of its new anti-drone laser system, dubbed SlimBeam, designed specifically to engage and neutralize small FPV drones. The system was showcased during IRON DEMO 2025, where it drew attention for its compact size and directed-energy capabilities.
According to an exclusive report by Oboronka, the SlimBeam laser has a power rating of 1.5 kW and is capable of targeting airborne threats at distances of up to one kilometer. The system also features a secondary optical disruption mode, which can temporarily blind the sensors of drones or stationary surveillance optics at ranges of up to two kilometers.
The laser platform, weighing under 50 kilograms, is among the lightest in its power class, the company claims. It is designed for integration on both fixed defensive positions and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), enhancing flexibility for frontline and perimeter applications.
In an interview with Oboronka, a developer named Ihor from the Fulltime Robotics team described current challenges, particularly with precision tracking of fast-moving aerial targets.
“We’re working on target tracking. Right now, we can’t keep a lock on moving drones for long. We need to hold the beam on target for 5 to 15 seconds to destroy it, and achieving that accuracy is still a work in progress,” Ihor said.
As of now, the system is being tested primarily on stationary targets, with manual beam control. An automated targeting module is in development but has not yet been fielded. Ihor confirmed that the team is actively refining this component to enable more reliable autonomous engagement.
The SlimBeam is optimized for disabling small reconnaissance and FPV drones—aircraft frequently used by Russian forces for frontline surveillance and kamikaze attacks. While some initial testing was conducted against larger drone types, including the Shahed-series loitering munitions, engineers noted that these platforms require more energy to damage.
“To harm a Shahed, the laser needs to stay on target continuously for 10 to 12 seconds,” Ihor explained.
One of the most ambitious elements of the project is the planned development of a portable version of the laser. Fulltime Robotics envisions a rifle-style configuration that could allow infantry to target and disable low-flying drones at close range, giving small units a lightweight tool to help secure their positions from aerial intrusion.
In addition to its military applications, the company has already demonstrated civilian use cases for the technology. During IRON DEMO 2025, engineers used the SlimBeam to remove small obstructions in hard-to-reach areas, such as power lines, building exteriors, and overgrown tree limbs.
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