At Exercise Balikatan 2026, U.S. and allied forces evaluated L3Harris’ specialized and modular counter-unmanned systems (C-UxS) solution, VAMPIRE™, examining its effectiveness in simulated engagements. The event highlighted counter-drone capabilities as a core requirement for survival in contested environments including land, maritime and littoral spaces, with VAMPIRE serving as a reputable, effective and combat-proven solution.
“One of the primary benefits of a system like VAMPIRE is the integration of highly effective and affordable munitions,” said Tom Kirkland, President, Targeting & Sensor Systems, Communications & Spectrum Dominance, L3Harris. “The sustainability and low-cost curve that a kinetic munition like APKWS provides to the end user is what allows VAMPIRE to set a new standard. It is what our customers are looking for as part of a greater, layered counter-UxS defense strategy.”
A U.S. Army officer discusses the advantages of VAMPIRE with members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, during Exercise Balikatan 2026
Exercise Balikatan 2026 underscored the growing drone threat in the Indo-Pacific region and other environments. VAMPIRE serves as a complete and affordable solution for drone defense across bases, airfields, islands and critical infrastructure. As a part of a layered defense architecture, VAMPIRE integrates detection, identification and defeat capabilities to counter evolving threats in drone-heavy environments.
In early 2026, L3Harris initiated high-volume production of VAMPIRE at its manufacturing facility in Huntsville, Alabama. The new production line is a direct response to the United States and its allies’ need to combat the persistent drone threat posing risks to military personnel and infrastructure.
