In a significant breakthrough for India's defence technology, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully tested the Mk-II(A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system. Conducted at the National Open Air Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, this test puts India in an exclusive league of nations—along with the United States, China, and Russia—that possess high-powered laser weapons capable of neutralising aerial threats.
Cutting-Edge Indigenous Technology
The Mk-II(A) DEW system has been designed by the Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences of the DRDO at Hyderabad. This is a demonstration of the expanding capability of India to specialize in defense technology. The project was also divided among other laboratories in DRDO such as the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), Instruments Research and Development Establishment (IRDE), and Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL), besides the Indian university and industry collaborators.
The laser weapon system established its worth by:
- Shooting down fixed-wing drones from a distance.
- Countering repeated drone swarm attacks with precision.
- Disabling hostile surveillance sensors and antennae in a short time.
DRDO officials reveal that the speed of the response and accuracy of the system make it a strong counter-drone solution.
Strategic Implications and Future Prospects
The successful trial of the Mk-II(A) DEW system not only enhances India's defense strength but also marks a revolutionary shift in the country's strategy for high-tech warfare. With plans to boost the system's power, extend its range, and adapt it for airborne, naval, and satellite-based deployment, India is already on its way to further solidifying its position in the league of high-tech defense technologies.
The action comes at a time when the technologies of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and low-cost drone swarms are progressively challenging the capabilities of traditional defense systems. Directed Energy Weapons are being identified globally as defense technology of the next level because they are scalable, precise, and less expensive.
India's successful test of the high-energy laser weapon marks India's attempt to enhance its native defense technology and keep up with the new trend in modern warfare.