India’s ‘Star Wars’ weapon! DRDO exams laser that melts aerial threats

India’s Defence and Analysis Growth Organisation (DRDO) on Sunday (April 13) performed a profitable trial of a system geared up with high-power Laser-DEW expertise, used to shoot down missiles, drones, and smaller projectiles.

The trial was performed on the Nationwide Open Air Vary (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The Mk-II (A) Laser-Directed Vitality Weapon (DEW) system will ultimately be upgraded and strengthened to extend its effectivity and capability, stated DRDO chief Samir V. Kamat whereas speaking to information company ANI.

What subsequent?

In keeping with the DRDO, the following mission for the organisation is to develop a miniaturised model of the laser weapon and slot in onto ships and airborne platforms.

“We’re additionally taking a look at how we will miniaturise it to place it on airborne platforms and the way we will put it on ships. It’s a journey that has began right now,” Kamat stated.

He added that DRDO scientists have been exploring constructing different high-energy programs as effectively, together with high-energy microwave and electromagnetic pulse.

“So, we’re engaged on quite a lot of applied sciences that may give us Star Wars functionality. What you noticed right now was one of many parts of the Star Wars applied sciences,” he stated.

‘Fourth nation to develop such system’

The profitable take a look at of the laser weapon has put India within the elite record of countries possessing this expertise, together with the US, China, and Russia.

Kamat stated Israel is also engaged on comparable expertise.

“I’d say we’re the fourth or fifth nation on this planet to reveal this technique,” he stated.

Extra in regards to the system

DRDO officers described the laser system as a game-changer, because of its lightning-fast response, pinpoint precision, and deadly impression—taking down targets inside seconds. As soon as a drone is noticed—both by radar or its built-in Electro-Optic system—the laser-directed power weapon (laser-DEW) kicks in. It fires a targeted laser beam on the pace of sunshine, sturdy sufficient to slice by way of the drone’s construction and even set off a warhead detonation.

It’s not simply flashy tech—it may critically shake up the battlefield. By ditching conventional (and expensive) ammunition for lasers, it cuts down each on bills and the danger of collateral injury.

“The DEW will quickly substitute conventional kinetic weapons and missile defence programs as a consequence of its ease of operation and cost-effectiveness. The requirement for cost-effective defence options to offset the low-cost drone assaults is driving the adoption of DEWs by army organisations worldwide. The price of firing it for a number of seconds is equal to what a few litres of petrol now prices. Subsequently, it may be a long-term & low-cost various to defeat the goal,” an official stated.