Development of Laser Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) System

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted a trial of the Mk-II(A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system in Kurnool on April 13, 2025.

Technological Advancements

• The Mk-II(A) DEW system is indigenously designed and developed by DRDO.
• The system successfully engaged fixed-wing drones and thwarted multiple drone attacks.
• It also destroyed enemy surveillance sensors and antennae.

Significance of the DEW System

• India joins an exclusive group of nations with high-power Laser-DEW systems.
• The DEW offers a cost-effective defence solution against low-cost drone attacks.
• The cost of firing is minimal, comparable to a few litres of petrol, making it a sustainable and low-cost alternative.

Operational Details

• The system can engage targets at the speed of light using an intense laser beam.
• Targets can be structurally disabled or destroyed, especially if the warhead is targeted.

Potential Impact and Future Prospects

• DEWs can revolutionize the battlefield by reducing reliance on expensive ammunition and lowering collateral damage risks.
• The proliferation of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and drone swarms increases the demand for DEWs with counter-UAS and counter-swarm capabilities.
• DEW systems are expected to replace traditional kinetic weapons and missile defence systems due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of operation.

Development and Collaboration

• The DEW system was developed by DRDO’s Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS) in Hyderabad.
• The project involved collaboration with other laboratories, academic institutions, and Indian industries.