Could Laser Fusion Tech Be Used to Shoot Down Missiles and Drones?

Defense contractor RTX is teaming with fusion startup Xcimer to explore whether high-powered laser technology developed for fusion energy could be adapted into directed-energy weapons against missiles and drones. It's a notable example of dual-use spillover, where commercial fusion R&D funding may accelerate military laser capabilities and vice versa — an idea with roots in Cold War-era programs.

• RTX is partnering with fusion energy startup Xcimer on laser technology with potential defense applications.
• The work targets counter-missile and counter-drone use, an area of intense military interest as cheap drones proliferate.
• The concept revives Cold War-era thinking about high-energy lasers, showing how fusion research can be dual-use.