India unveils powerful laser weapon to neutralize aircraft, missiles, and drones

Developed by DRDO’s Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS) in collaboration with various laboratories, institutions, and private industry, the laser weapon uses radar or electro-optic systems to detect and precisely engage targets, causing structural failure or warhead damage

India has successfully tested a domestically developed laser weapon, entering an exclusive group of nations with such advanced technology, according to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The trial, which took place at the National Open Air Range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, showcased the system’s ability to neutralize both fixed-wing drones and drone swarms, as well as disable surveillance equipment at long ranges.

The DRDO described the system as the "most potent counter-drone system," highlighting its speed, precision, and lethality. The 30-kilowatt directed energy weapon (DEW) demonstrated the capability to engage targets at the speed of light, using a focused laser beam to damage or destroy targets upon impact. Only a handful of countries, including the US, Russia, China, the UK, Germany, and Israel, have mastered such technology, which is capable of disabling missiles, drones, and other smaller projectiles.

Developed by the DRDO’s Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS) in Hyderabad, the laser weapon was created in collaboration with other government laboratories, academic institutions, and private industry. The system is equipped with radar or an integrated electro-optic (EO) system to detect targets. Once a threat is identified, the DEW engages it with pinpoint accuracy, effectively causing structural failure or damaging sensitive components like warheads.

Cost-effective, low-collateral defence solution

The DRDO emphasized that this cutting-edge technology could revolutionize the battlefield by reducing reliance on expensive ammunition and minimizing collateral damage. With the rise of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and drone swarms in modern warfare, the need for DEWs with counter-UAS and counter-swarm capabilities has grown significantly.

Strategic affairs expert Air Marshal Anil Chopra (retd) noted that DEWs provide a virtually unlimited supply of "ammunition" and are significantly cheaper than traditional kinetic weapons. Moreover, they do not require complex logistics, making them an attractive alternative for military operations.

The DRDO also pointed out that the cost of operating the laser system for a few seconds is comparable to the cost of just a few litres of petrol, positioning the technology as a long-term, cost-effective defence solution. This development aligns with the growing demand for affordable defence measures against low-cost drone threats.

India’s laser weapon sets new defence benchmark

In light of these advancements, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the power of technological innovation in modern combat. He recently noted at the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington, Tamil Nadu, that drones have become a transformative force in military conflicts, particularly in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, where they have been responsible for a significant number of casualties and equipment losses.