DRDO successfully demonstrates laser-based Directed Energy Weapon system

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has demonstrated star-wars like capabilities by successfully destroying areal targets like helicopters and drone swarms using a laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system.

Called the Mk-II (A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW), the system uses a laser beam to shoot down targets moving at high speeds by engaging them at the speed of light. The laser beam cuts through the targets, causing structural failures or disabling electronic parts.

The Mk-II (A) showcased on Sunday, at the National Open Air Range (NOAR), in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, is a 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system designed to take down helicopters, drone swarms, and radars.

The successful demonstration of directed energy weapon system puts India in the select list of countries that include the US, China, Russia and Israel.

The entire Mk-II (A) DEW system is indigenously designed and developed and it has demonstrated capabilities of engaging fixed wing drones at long range and in swarms as also destroying enemy surveillance sensors and antennae, according to a DRDO statement. 

The DEW system is a cutting-edge battlefield technology that can reduce the reliance on expensive ammunition, while also lowering the risk of collateral damage, DRDO stated, adding that the DEW system is a cost-effective defence against low-cost drone attacks and is sought after by militaries world over.

The DEW would soon replace traditional kinetic weapons and missile defence systems due to its ease of operation and cost effectiveness, DRDO added. 

ANI news agency quoted DRDO chairman Samir V Kamat as saying that the Laser DEW system is among various futuristic technologies that it is working on. Besides, DRDO is working on high energy weapon systems like microwaves, electromagnetic pulse ets that would give India Stat Wars capabilities, Kamat pointed out.

He development is a big boon to India's armed forces as the DEW system makes anti-drone warfare more dependable and accurate.

DRDO used a vehicle-mounted Laser Directed Weapon(DEW) MK-II(A) for the Kurnool demonstration. Kamat said it is working on integrating the system with air and sea defence platforms as well.