Mumbai: In a landmark achievement, India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully tested a laser-based directed-energy weapon (DEW) system capable of neutralizing fixed-wing aircraft, missiles, and drone swarms, marking a major leap forward in the nation’s defence technology.
#WATCH | Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh: For the first time, India has showcased its capability to shoot down fixed-wing aircraft, missiles and swarm drones using a 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system. India has joined list of selected countries, including the US, China, and Russia,… https://t.co/fjGHmqH8N4
— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2025
30-Kilowatt Laser Weapon Tested in Andhra Pradesh
The cutting-edge weapon, a 30-kilowatt Mk-II(A) laser-based DEW system, was tested at Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh by a team of DRDO officials, delivering exceptional results. The test demonstrated the full spectrum of the system’s capability, including precision strikes on fixed-wing drones, neutralization of multiple drone attacks, and destruction of enemy surveillance sensors and antennae.
Developed indigenously by DRDO’s Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS) in Hyderabad, the successful demonstration places India alongside global defence giants like the United States, China, and Russia—countries already known to possess advanced laser weapon systems.
Fast, Accurate, and Ready for Deployment
The DRDO’s new DEW system is touted as one of the most advanced counter-drone technologies, boasting lightning-fast engagement speeds and high precision, capable of striking targets within seconds. The system can engage aerial threats—including drones and helicopters—within a 5 km radius, and is also equipped with electronic warfare capabilities such as communication and satellite signal jamming.
According to DRDO sources, the weapon is ready for production and deployment across various military platforms, covering both ground and naval operations.
A Glimpse into ‘Star Wars’-Like Defence Capabilities
DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat, speaking to news agency ANI, referred to the achievement as a significant milestone and hinted at even more advanced systems on the horizon.
“What you saw today was one of the components of Star Wars technologies. We are working on a number of technologies that will give us Star Wars capability,” he said, expressing confidence in India’s rapidly evolving defence R&D ecosystem.
“This is just the beginning. The synergy between DRDO labs, industry, and academia is propelling us toward our goal,” he added.
The DRDO is also exploring high-energy technologies such as microwave and electromagnetic pulse weapons, further solidifying India’s position in the future of warfare.
Strengthening India’s Defence Preparedness
The breakthrough comes at a time when Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and drone-based threats are rising globally, increasing the demand for rapid-response, precision anti-drone technologies.
India’s successful development and testing of a laser-directed energy weapon not only demonstrates its technological edge but also significantly boosts its defence preparedness in an evolving security landscape.
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