Laser Directed Energy Weapon: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has carried out the successful trial of its Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system at the National Open Air Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, marking a major technological breakthrough in disabling missiles, drones, and smaller projectiles.
This achievement places India in the exclusive and limited group of nations possessing high-power laser-directed energy weapons. The indigenously designed and developed Mk-II(A) DEW system was demonstrated across its full spectrum of capabilities—engaging fixed-wing drones at long range, neutralizing a multiple drone attack, and destroying enemy surveillance sensors and antennae.
Its lightning-fast engagement, high precision, and lethal impact on targets within seconds make it the most potent counter-drone system.
The system has been developed by DRDO’s Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), Hyderabad, in collaboration with academic institutions and Indian industries.
Once a target is detected, either by radar or the weapon’s inbuilt Electro-Optic (EO) system, the laser-DEW can engage at the speed of light. It uses an intense laser beam to cut through the target, causing structural failure or even more destructive results if the warhead is hit. This cutting-edge technology has the potential to transform the battlefield by reducing dependence on costly ammunition and minimizing collateral damage.
The increasing proliferation of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and the rise of drone swarms as asymmetric threats are accelerating the demand for directed energy weapons with counter-UAS and counter-swarm capabilities. Due to their operational simplicity and cost-effectiveness, DEWs are set to replace traditional kinetic weapons and missile defense systems.
The global need for affordable defense solutions to counter low-cost drone attacks is driving the adoption of such systems. Notably, the cost of firing the laser for a few seconds is equivalent to just a couple of litres of petrol—making it a highly economical and long-term alternative for neutralizing threats.
