Electro Optic Systems has secured a $42 million contract from a Middle Eastern nation to supply its Slinger counter-drone remote cannon system, as regional tensions continue to rise.
Developed using insights from modern conflicts such as the Russo-Ukrainian War, the Slinger system is designed to address evolving aerial threats. The contract includes not only the weapon system but also cannons, platform integration, spare parts, training, and associated support equipment.
Production will be carried out in Australia, with deliveries planned through 2026. While the customer’s identity remains undisclosed, EOS described it as a major defense prime contractor with significant government and export programs. The anonymity request was attributed to national security concerns, with the system intended to strengthen regional defense capabilities.
Slinger is positioned as a cost-effective counter-drone solution, with each engagement estimated to cost between $100 and $1,000—significantly lower than many advanced alternatives. The system integrates radar for detection and tracking, a stabilized 30mm cannon with specialized ammunition, and precision targeting technology, and can operate independently or within a broader networked defense architecture.
Equipped with both daylight and thermal imaging sensors, Slinger can detect targets beyond 12 kilometers, with recognition and identification ranges of up to 5.6 kilometers and 4.7 kilometers, respectively. A recently introduced upgraded version adds assisted target recognition and enhanced autonomy features to improve operational performance.
In addition, EOS has secured separate contracts worth $3 million from a US-based customer for integration into a counter-drone system, with production also set in Australia and deliveries scheduled through 2026. The identities of the customer, end user, and final application remain undisclosed.
The company also reported discussions with several Middle Eastern governments in March regarding counter-drone capabilities, including Slinger, the Apollo high-energy laser system, and other solutions aimed at protecting critical infrastructure. While regional tensions may create further opportunities, EOS noted that additional orders are not guaranteed.
