India's High Energy Laser-Based Weapon System

India successfully demonstrated its advanced high energy laser-based weapon system, capable of neutralizing various aerial threats, including fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles, swarm drones, and surveillance sensors.

Key Features and Capabilities

• The weapon system is categorized as a directed energy weapon (DEW) and is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• The system, called Mk-II(A), generates a 30-kilowatt laser.
• It can effectively burn through enemy drones and blind surveillance equipment.
• The system is expected to be offered for induction within two years, with possible technology transfer to industry players.
• Currently land-based, there are plans for future satellite-based systems and maritime applications.

Significance and Future Plans

• India becomes the fourth or fifth country globally with such advanced capabilities, according to DRDO chief Samir V Kamat.
• The system was successfully tested by targeting swarm drone targets and fixed-wing drones at distances exceeding 3 kilometers.
• The system's engagement is characterized by lightning speed, precision, and lethality, making it a potent counter-drone asset.
• Future plans include enhancing the power for greater ranges and modifications for deployment on airborne platforms, ships, and satellites.

Technical Specifications

• The DEW system comprises six high-energy lasers of 5 KW each, converging into a single 30 KW beam.
• A previous smaller version of 2 KW was used to counter small drones at short ranges.