India has successfully tested a homegrown directed energy weapon (DEW) system, which represents a substantial improvement in the country’s defence capabilities. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) created the 30-kilowatt laser weapon, which was tested at the National Open Air Range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The demonstration demonstrated its capacity to neutralise fixed-wing drones, swarm drones, surveillance devices, and other threats with high precision.
This achievement places India in a small group of countries that own modern laser weapon systems, including the United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Israel. The system was created by the Hyderabad-based Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences, in partnership with other institutes, academic partners, and private sector.
The laser weapon detects targets using radar or an internal electro-optic system and engages them at the speed of light. It disables threats by slicing through their structure or targeting warheads for maximum impact.
Experts point to its potential to minimise reliance on expensive ammunition and lower the risk of collateral damage. The weapon also provides a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to standard defence systems. According to reports, a few seconds of use costs less than a couple of litres of petrol.
