India is developing its own directed energy weapons and recently took a significant step in the development of this technology by completing large-scale tests of the new Mk-II(A) laser system, Defence Blog writes, citing Indian military analyst Adithya Krishna Menon.
The testing took place in the open air at one of the Indian test sites, where the system demonstrated the ability to effectively detect and neutralize unmanned aerial vehicles, counter attacks by drone swarms, and disrupt surveillance systems.
According to the Indian Defense Ministry, the laser system has achieved a range of 3.5 km, providing high accuracy of targeting and speed of target destruction. The Mk-II(A) is based on a 30-kilowatt laser capable of destroying light helicopters and long-range drones at a distance of up to 5 km.
Adithya Krishna Menon
The system, which is equipped with infrared electro-optical sensors and radar to accurately track targets before striking, is being developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which plans to field the system by 2027.
The Mk-II(A) can be mounted on land vehicles or naval vessels, making it a versatile solution for the modern battlefield. India thus joins the ranks of countries actively developing laser weapons technology.