MarketWatch
Laser weapons aren’t science fiction anymore — and they’re changing how defense stocks are valued
Monday, June 29, 2026
Laser weapon systems are being developed and deployed by defense contractors including Palantir Technologies and Elbit Systems. These systems are designed to detect and disable unmanned aerial vehicles. Defense analysts view the counterdrone market as a growing sector within the broader defense industry, which has influenced investor valuations of companies developing these technologies. The systems operate using directed energy to target aircraft and drones at range. Market demand for such systems has increased as unmanned aircraft use has expanded globally.
