An air defense dome is a defense system designed to protect a specific area from air attacks, such as missiles, aircraft, drones, or artillery shells. This defense system uses radar and sensors to detect threats. Once targets are identified, the system tracks them and assesses whether they pose a threat. If they are deemed risky, the system activates an interceptor to neutralize the threat before it strikes.
The United States already has its own air defense system, known as the Golden Dome. Recently unveiled by President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, this concept is reminiscent of systems like Israel’s Iron Dome, but goes a step further by operating from space and focusing on intercepting hypersonic threats for precise neutralization.
Spain is also equipped with air defense systems, including NASAMS, an air and missile defense system, and Patriot, a mobile air defense system capable of intercepting tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, small-segment radar targets, and modern aircraft. Spain is also part of the TALOS-TWO program, which aims to develop a new directed energy system.
The Seville-based company Edair Technologies represents Spain and is working with other European Union companies on innovative solutions for laser source architectures for future directed energy weapon systems.
What is TALOS-TWO?
The goal of TALOS-TWO is to develop Europe’s first fully autonomous 100 kW laser-directed energy weapons by 2030. With a budget of over €20 million, this initiative was launched in December 2024 as a European Defence Fund-funded program. It aims to develop both the management of the directed energy beam and the laser source.
How did the idea of creating this defense system come about? Antanas Laurutis, CEO of Altechna, told The Engineer that “the current conflicts on Europe’s borders and the increasing security challenges have made Europe realize that no country is capable of defending itself alone. The continent has therefore taken a decisive step to strengthen its security as a united front and distance itself from fragmented national efforts.”
“TALOS-TWO is proof of this. By developing laser-guided energy weapons, we are deploying cutting-edge military technology and strengthening Europe’s ability to defend itself as a unified force against external threats.”
Improving Defense Capabilities through TALOS-TWO
The TALOS-TWO consortium is developing physical demonstrators, including two combined high-power 1 μm laser sources to optimize precise targeting and material processing. Simulated 2 μm laser combinations are also being developed to increase atmospheric penetration and ensure eye safety.
By developing these technologies, TALOS-TWO is improving directed energy capabilities for defense, optimizing range, efficiency, and adaptability in real-world situations. According to Altechna, the project will not only strengthen military and defense capabilities but also contribute to strengthening Europe’s technological and industrial base.
