

Directed Energy Weapon Systems and Electronic Warfare with Dr. Matt Markel, Chief Technology Officer, Epirus
7 snips Mar 20, 2025
In this insightful conversation, Matt Markel, Chief Technology Officer at Epirus and a seasoned expert in radar and electronic warfare, explores groundbreaking advancements in directed energy weapon systems. He shares his experiences in developing the Leonidas high-power microwave system, emphasizing its pivotal role in countering drone threats and reshaping modern defense strategies. Markel also discusses the challenges smaller defense tech firms face and the significance of continuous learning and adaptability in both personal and professional growth.
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Career Path From Labs To Startups
- Matt Markel described his path from government labs to startups and industry leadership, including time at AFRL and Waymo.
- Those varied roles taught him systems thinking, rapid development, and commercial product practices he brought to Epirus.
Phased-Array Radar Techniques Applied To HPM
- Epirus adapted mature phased-array radar techniques to high-power microwave (HPM) design to gain software-defined, scalable advantages.
- This approach increases delivered energy and unlocks new effects on electronic targets compared with classic HPM systems.
Broad Target Set And Tactical Ranges
- Leonidas targets a broad set of electronics, originally aimed at small drones but effective across groups one–three and other platforms.
- Epirus reports defeating targets at tactically relevant ranges while continuing feature upgrades.