Description

India has taken a major step forward in next-generation defence capabilities with the successful trial of the Mk-II(A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The announcement, made on April 13, 2025, confirms India's entry into a niche group of nations equipped with high-powered laser weapon technology.

Overview Of Mk-II(A) DEW System

The Mk-II(A) is a homegrown directed energy weapon capable of neutralizing various aerial threats, including fixed-wing drones, multiple unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attacks, and surveillance infrastructure like sensors and antennas. Built for rapid response and pinpoint accuracy, the system is engineered to serve as a critical counter-drone asset in modern warfare scenarios.

Affordability And Operational Efficiency

One of the system's most compelling features is its extremely low operating cost. Firing the DEW for several seconds incurs a cost comparable to just a few litres of petrol, making it far more economical than deploying missiles or conventional ammunition. This cost-effectiveness enhances its viability as a long-term defence solution against persistent low-cost threats like drone swarms.

Weapon System  Operate

The weapon system  operates at the speed of light, offering instantaneous response. It integrates radar tracking and an electro-optic (EO) targeting system to detect and lock onto threats. Upon identification, a high-intensity laser beam is directed at the target to induce structural degradation or outright destruction. When aimed at warheads, it can potentially cause internal failure, making it a highly strategic tool with minimal risk of collateral damage.

 Development Journey

The Mk-II(A) DEW was conceptualized and built by DRDO’s Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), based in Hyderabad. The development process involved a collaborative effort including multiple DRDO laboratories, Indian academic institutions, and industrial partners, showcasing India’s growing domestic capability in advanced defence technologies.

 Strategic Importance In Modern Warfare

As the use of drones and unmanned systems continues to rise in asymmetric warfare, the need for agile and scalable countermeasures has become urgent. The Mk-II(A) DEW is designed specifically to meet these challenges, offering a practical alternative to traditional kinetic weapons and interception missiles. Its ability to handle multiple threats rapidly makes it a game-changer in future combat scenarios.

Looking Ahead

The successful trial of this laser weapon represents a paradigm shift in India’s defence approach, focusing on high-tech, cost-efficient, and scalable solutions. As global military forces explore more effective ways to deal with emerging aerial threats, DEW systems like the Mk-II(A) are poised to become essential components of modern arsenals.

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