The EOTECH for drone defense

EOTECH responds to the use of drones in the field with the new HWS CUAS (Counter Unmanned Aircraft Sight) – a holographic sight specifically developed for combating unmanned aerial vehicles. The new optics will soon be available in Germany at IEA-MILOPTICS.

The new EOTECH HWS CUAS is based on the proven EXPS3 and XPS3 platforms. At its core is a specially designed holographic reticle that supports quick target acquisition and the engagement of both stationary and moving drones.
Special CUAS reticle for moving targets

For stationary drones, the CUAS reticle features a central aiming point surrounded by interrupted outer circles. This design is intended to allow for quick target engagement.

Additional lead marks help the user with moving targets. Depending on the distance and movement of the drone, the corresponding lead point can be intuitively selected.

EOTECH provides a specific example: If a drone is moving at around 30 mph (about 48 km/h) at a 90-degree angle across the user, the inner left or right points can be used as lead for a target at 50 meters distance.

For a distance of 90 meters, the outer chevrons serve as a reference.

Why a holographic sight?

Especially with more complex and larger reticles, the holographic technology showcases its strengths. According to EOTECH, it allows the various aiming and lead points to be perceived sharply at the target regardless of the form and size of the reticle.

Thus, EOTECH transfers the properties of its established Holographic Weapon Sights to an operational area that is gaining importance on modern battlefields.

HWS CUAS as EXPS3 and XPS3

EXPS3 CUAS

The EXPS3 version features side-mounted controls, which is particularly advantageous when combined with night vision devices or magnifiers.

Additionally, it has an adjustable and lockable quick-detach lever for rapid mounting and dismounting.

XPS3 CUAS

In contrast, the more compact XPS3 has rear-mounted controls.

Technical Data EOTECH EXPS3 CUAS

• Dimensions: 96.5 × 58.4 × 65 mm
• Weight: approx. 317.5 g
• Mount: 1" Weaver or MIL-STD-1913
• Adjustment: 0.5 MOA per click
• Brightness: 20 daylight / 10 night vision levels
• Waterproof: up to 10 m
• Power supply: 1 × CR123
• Battery life: up to 1,000 hours at nominal setting 4 and room temperature

Technical Data EOTECH XPS3 CUAS

• Dimensions: 96.5 × 53.3 × 64 mm
• Weight: approx. 255 g
• Mount: 1" Weaver or MIL-STD-1913
• Adjustment: 0.5 MOA per click
• Brightness: 20 daylight / 10 night vision levels
• Waterproof: up to 10 m
• Power supply: 1 × CR123
• Battery life: up to 1,000 hours at nominal setting 4 and room temperature

Both models are manufactured in the USA.

EOTECH responds to new threat situations

With the HWS CUAS, EOTECH expands the classic application spectrum of holographic sights with a solution specifically tailored to the increasing threat posed by small unmanned aerial vehicles.

Instead of a completely new platform, the manufacturer relies on the established EXPS3 and XPS3 systems and supplements them with a specialized reticle for stationary and moving drones.

This way, the operating concept, design, and essential features of the well-known EOTECH platforms are preserved. 

IEA-MILOPTICS online