NEW DELHI: In a significant technological milestone, India has successfully tested a powerful 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system capable of disabling or destroying aerial threats such as drones, missiles, and surveillance sensors. With this development, India joins an elite group of nations—including the US, Russia, China, the UK, and Israel—advancing in the field of directed energy weapons (DEWs).
The trials, conducted on Sunday at the national open air range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, showcased the capabilities of the Laser-DEW Mark-II(A). The system was used to destroy a small fixed-wing drone, neutralize a swarm of seven drones, and “blind” surveillance sensors mounted both on drones and on the ground, all at ranges of up to 3.5 kilometers.
“This is a reusable and highly efficient weapon for ‘beam kills’ as opposed to ‘kinetic kills’ using costly missiles. Its low cost per shot makes it particularly advantageous in prolonged conflicts, like those we’re witnessing globally,” said Dr. B.K. Das, Director-General (Electronics and Communication Systems) at the DRDO, speaking to Times of India.
Mounted on a vehicle, the integrated drone detection and interdiction system (IDD&IS) represents a major step forward for India, which has been playing catch-up in the race to develop cost-effective counter-drone solutions. Until now, India had deployed 23 IDD&IS units equipped with 2-kilowatt lasers, which are effective up to 1-2 kilometers. A 10-kilowatt version was also developed, but the new 30-kilowatt system significantly extends operational range and power.
The ultimate challenge lies in miniaturizing these systems for deployment on aircraft and naval warships. According to Dr. Das, full user trials of the 30-kilowatt system could begin within 12 to 18 months, after which the technology would be transferred to domestic manufacturers for production.
In response to the increasing threat posed by unmanned aerial systems and swarming drones, DRDO is now working on next-generation DEWs with power levels ranging from 50 to 100 kilowatts, as well as high-energy microwave weapons, under a structured roadmap for short-, medium-, and long-term capabilities.
“Globally, militaries are turning to DEWs as cost-effective solutions to counter low-cost aerial threats. The operational cost of firing such a weapon for a few seconds is comparable to that of a couple of litres of petrol,” said another DRDO official.
Leading nations are already deploying or developing advanced laser systems. The US has installed its Helios system—featuring a 60-kilowatt laser scalable to 120 kilowatts—on frontline warships. Israel is preparing to deploy its 100-kilowatt ‘Iron Beam’ system with a 10-km range, while the UK is progressing with the development of ‘Dragon Fire’ for naval applications.
Despite their advantages, DEWs are not without limitations. Their effectiveness can be reduced by adverse weather conditions, and their range still lags behind conventional weapons. However, experts remain optimistic.
“Future developments in beam-steering, adaptive optics, and laser efficiency will significantly enhance the range, precision, and versatility of DEWs,” said a DRDO scientist. “We’re looking at a transformative shift in the way modern warfare is conducted.”
