DRDO’s Laser-Based Weapon System:
In a major technological breakthrough, India has successfully demonstrated its capability. It can shoot down fixed-wing aircraft, missiles, and drones. It achieved this using a 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system. This achievement makes India one of the few nations in the world with such advanced directed-energy capabilities. The test was conducted on Sunday, April 13, 2025.
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this laser system marks a significant leap in India’s defense arsenal. It is now ready for production and deployment across various military platforms. With this success, India joins the elite group of countries. These countries include the United States, China, and Russia. They possess next-generation laser weapon technologies.
“This is just the beginning” DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat hailed the achievement and said, “This is only the start of our journey. The synergy this lab has built with other DRDO labs is impressive. Collaboration with industry and academia gives me confidence. I believe we will soon reach our goals. We’re also working on high-energy systems like microwave and electromagnetic pulse weapons. What you’ve seen today is just one component of a future where we possess ‘Star Wars’-level capabilities.”
He added that to his knowledge, only the US, Russia, China, and possibly Israel have demonstrated similar technologies. This makes India the fourth or fifth country globally to do so.
What makes this system special?
The 30-kilowatt laser weapon system can neutralize airborne threats like drones. It is also effective against helicopters within a 5 km range. It also includes advanced electronic warfare capabilities, such as jamming communications and satellite signals. The system is versatile enough for deployment both on land and at sea. This versatility enhances India’s defense posture across multiple domains.
The system is equipped with 360-degree electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors. It allows for precision targeting. It can be rapidly deployed by air, road, rail, or sea. This 30kW laser is part of India’s larger efforts in developing directed-energy weapons.
More powerful systems in the pipeline
DRDO is also working on even more powerful systems. These include a 300-kilowatt solar-powered laser weapon. It has an operational range of up to 20 kilometers. This system is being designed to tackle high-speed threats like missiles. It can also address unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This significantly strengthens India’s strategic capabilities in modern warfare.
