Fusion power startups find new partners in the defense world
TechCrunch
β’Sun, 13 Sep 2026 13:15:00 +0000
π° What Happened
Fusion power startups are finding new partners in the defence industry. Fusion research began decades ago, when scientists looked for peaceful uses of the science behind Cold War thermonuclear bombs. Defence interest has risen sharply because drones have changed modern warfare. Laser weapons could shoot down cheap drones at far lower cost than missiles. Last week laser-fusion startup Xcimer announced a partnership and investment from RTX.
π The Backstory
Old air defence systems were built to hit piloted aircraft, which are larger and fewer in number. About ten years ago, a US ally used a $3 million Patriot missile to down a $200 hobby drone. That is a poor trade. Xcimer runs what it says is the largest privately owned laser system in the world. Pacific Fusion has a deal with the National Nuclear Security Administration and has broken ground in New Mexico.
π― Why It Matters
Cheaper ways to stop drones could change how wars are fought and how much defence costs. The same laser research may also help fusion power reach the grid.
Fusion power startups are finding new partners in the defence industry. Fusion research began decades ago, when scientists looked for peaceful uses of the science behind Cold War thermonuclear bombs. Defence interest has risen sharply because drones have changed modern warfare. Laser weapons could shoot down cheap drones at far lower cost than missiles. Last week laser-fusion startup Xcimer announced a partnership and investment from RTX.
Old air defence systems were built to hit piloted aircraft, which are larger and fewer in number. About ten years ago, a US ally used a $3 million Patriot missile to down a $200 hobby drone. That is a poor trade. Xcimer runs what it says is the largest privately owned laser system in the world. Pacific Fusion has a deal with the National Nuclear Security Administration and has broken ground in New Mexico.
Cheaper ways to stop drones could change how wars are fought and how much defence costs. The same laser research may also help fusion power reach the grid.