In a major stride for India’s defense modernization, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted trials of its advanced Directed Energy Weapon (DEW), the 30-kilowatt Mk-II(A) laser system. This successful test positions India alongside global military powers investing heavily in future combat technologies.
The Mk-II(A) laser weapon, tested in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, proved its efficacy by precisely disabling aerial platforms, coordinated drone attacks, and surveillance sensors at a distance of five kilometers. This marks India’s emergence as a serious contender in the development of sophisticated laser-based defense solutions.
Directed Energy Weapons are revolutionizing warfare by replacing projectiles with focused energy. Their cost efficiency, with each laser engagement costing significantly less than a missile, and their light-speed targeting capabilities offer unparalleled reaction times against modern threats. The DRDO’s achievement with the Mk-II(A) underscores the strategic importance of mastering this technology.
Although the Mk-II(A) is currently suited for countering tactical threats rather than ballistic missiles, it is a critical stepping stone. India’s defense ambitions extend to the 300-kilowatt ‘Surya’ DEW, intended for longer-range interception. This development aims to establish a robust, multi-layered defense system capable of addressing complex aerial challenges.
DEWs function by delivering concentrated energy. Laser DEWs inflict damage through intense heat, while other forms like microwave DEWs can disable multiple targets simultaneously. These systems offer advantages such as minimal ammunition needs and reduced risk to civilian areas, making them highly desirable for military applications globally.