The Japanese Ministry of Defense has unveiled its latest laser weapon for the first time at the DSEI Japan 2025 international defense technology exhibition. This is reported by Defence Blog. The system, called the Vehicle-Mounted High-Power Laser System, is being developed by the Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA) in collaboration with the Japanese Ministry of Defense.
This short-range laser system is designed to combat aerial threats, including drones. It has high mobility, low combat cost, and rapid response to threats. The prototype is mounted on an 8×8 truck chassis and is equipped with a 10 kW laser turret, allowing the system to be quickly deployed and transported to the combat zone.
ATLA
Defense officials said the technology could be a game-changer in air defense because it does not rely on traditional kinetic interceptors. The laser system is expected to significantly reduce ammunition costs because each shot has a minimal cost.
This is the first public demonstration of the laser system, signaling the transition from laboratory testing to operational experimentation. The system is still under development and additional field testing will be conducted before a decision is made to deploy it.