Laser Weapons, Defense Startups, Reshoring U.S. Manufacturing | Michael LaFramboise (Podcast #23)
The Drone Ultimatum28 Maalis 2025

Laser Weapons, Defense Startups, Reshoring U.S. Manufacturing | Michael LaFramboise (Podcast #23)

Michael LaFramboise is the co-founder and CEO of Aurelius Systems, a defense technology startup building the next generation of autonomous counter-UAS. Their premier product, the Archimedes Laser Sentinel, combines high-powered directed energy with edge-deployed advanced control for unparalleled point-defense capabilities.TOPICS

(0:00) Intro

(1:06) Our First Laser Guest

(2:29) BlueHalo’s Locust

(4:29) US Navy Laser Weapons

(5:51) Steve’s Sub Experiences

(8:14) What’s Different About Defense

(11:25) A New Defense YC?

(17:14) Aurelius’ Laser, Explained

(26:45) Demo Plans + Fundraising

(32:58) Improving CROWS Weapon System

(39:46) Aurelius Growth Plan

(44:25) Importance of Lobbying

(48:08) How Long EW Will Be Effective Against Drones

(57:31) The Path to a $1T Laser Company

(01:01:22) 7/11 Life After Defense Companies

(01:10:41) Investor Relations Life

(01:16:11) Founder Life = R&R (Raising and Recruiting)

(01:17:54) Computer Vision and Equipment Challenges

(01:24:30) Outro


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Check out Allen Control Systems (ACS): https://www.allencontrolsystems.com/

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