Article Title: DRDO tests laser weapon system that can disable missile and drones
14-04-2025
Defence & Internal Security Current Affairs Analysis
Context
• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Sunday announced the successful trial of the Mk-II(A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system “mastering the technology of disabling missiles, drones and smaller projectiles”.
• The success has put India in the exclusive club of nations which have the high power Laser-DEW system, the DRDO said in a statement.
• “Indigenously designed and developed Mk-II(A) DEW system was demonstrated in its entire spectrum of capability by engaging the fixed wing drones at long range, thwarting a multiple drone attack and destroying enemy surveillance sensors and antennae,” the statement said.
• “The lightning speed of engagement, the precision and the lethality delivered at the target within few seconds made it the most potent counter drone system.”
• Detailing the functioning of the system, the statement said once detected by a radar or by its inbuilt Electro Optic (EO) system, laser-DEW can engage targets at the speed of light and use an intense laser beam to cut through the target, leading to structural failure or more impactful results if the warhead is targeted.
• This type of cutting-edge weaponry has the potential to revolutionise the battlespace by reducing the reliance on expensive ammunition, while also lowering the risk of collateral damage, it stated. The trial was carried at the National Open Air Range, Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh.
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