India has successfully tested a powerful 30-kilowatt laser system, marking a significant leap in modern warfare technology. This system has the capability to neutralize enemy drones and small aircraft in mid-air. This achievement makes India the fourth country in the world to possess such technology.
New Delhi: India has achieved a landmark feat in military technology by developing a 30-kilowatt laser system. This system can disable enemy aircraft, drones, missiles, and even sensor systems in flight. It is a Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) that utilizes energy beams, eliminating the need for projectiles or explosives.
This advanced technology places India among a select group of nations, including the United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, and Israel, all of whom are developing similar “Star Wars”-style high-tech weaponry.
Revolutionary Testing in Kurnool
During tests of the Laser-DEW Mark-II(A) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, the system successfully engaged targets at a range of 3.5 kilometers. The tests demonstrated its ability not only to shoot down small aircraft but also to destroy swarms of drones individually. Significantly, the system also disabled the sensors and cameras on the drones, completely disrupting enemy surveillance and offensive capabilities.
Technology that Neutralizes Enemy Intentions
This advanced weapon, known as a Directed Energy Weapon (DEW), differs significantly from conventional missiles. While missiles achieve “kinetic kills,” lasers deliver “beam kills,” eliminating the enemy with a high-intensity beam of light. According to Dr. B.K. Das, Director-General of DRDO, this is a weapon of the future. It offers a cost-effective method of neutralizing enemies, particularly beneficial in prolonged conflicts where ammunition consumption is high.
A New Weapon to Counter the Drone Threat
Drone attacks have become a significant feature of modern warfare. India's success comes at a time when incidents of inexpensive and dangerous drone attacks along borders are increasing. This “Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System” can neutralize enemy intentions in mid-air. Currently, the Indian Army possesses 23 systems equipped with 2-kilowatt lasers, which have a limited range.
Following the success of the 30-kilowatt system, DRDO is now working on DEWs with capacities ranging from 50 to 100 kilowatts. Research is also underway on new technologies such as high-energy microwaves.
Low Cost, High Impact
The biggest advantage of DEWs is their operational cost. According to an official, the cost of running the system for a few seconds is comparable to that of a few liters of petrol. This makes it a cost-effective and sustainable method of thwarting enemy attacks. According to DRDO, the system could be deployed within the next 12 to 18 months. The technology will be shared with private companies to facilitate large-scale production and deployment on military aircraft and warships.
