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It’s thrilling to hear about India’s advancements in defense technology! While the phrase “Star Wars” laser might sound like science fiction, it seems to refer to the successful testing of a high-energy laser weapon system capable of shooting down drones.
Here’s a breakdown of what the recent reports indicate:
- Successful Test: India has successfully tested a 30-kilowatt laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system. This test, conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at the National Open Air Range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, demonstrated the system’s ability to neutralize aerial targets.
- Targets Engaged: The laser weapon successfully engaged and destroyed fixed-wing drones and a swarm of drones. It also proved capable of disabling surveillance sensors.
- “Star Wars” Capability: DRDO officials have indicated that this achievement is a step towards realizing “Star Wars” capabilities, referring to advanced directed energy weapons seen in science fiction. They are also working on other high-energy systems like high-energy microwaves and electromagnetic pulse technologies.
- Elite Group: With this successful trial, India joins a select group of nations, including the United States, China, and Russia, that have demonstrated such high-power laser weapon capabilities. Some reports also include Israel in this group or as being close to achieving similar capabilities.
- How it Works: The laser weapon system uses an intense beam of light to target and destroy drones. Once a drone is detected by radar or an in-built electro-optical system, the laser beam can cut through the target, causing structural failure or detonating any warheads.
- Advantages: Laser-based DEWs offer several advantages, including:
- Speed of Engagement: They can engage targets at the speed of light.
- Precision: They offer highly accurate targeting.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The cost per shot is significantly lower compared to traditional missiles and ammunition. Some reports mention the cost being comparable to a couple of liters of petrol per shot.
- Reduced Collateral Damage: They can minimize the risk of damage to surrounding areas.
- Future Developments: DRDO is working on more powerful laser systems, including a 300-kilowatt “Surya” laser with a longer range (up to 20 kilometers) capable of targeting faster and longer-range threats like missiles and aircraft. They also aim to miniaturize these systems for deployment on various platforms like airborne units and warships.
- Current Deployment: The Indian Army has already inducted some smaller 2-kilowatt laser-based anti-drone systems for deployment along the Pakistan and China borders, which have proven effective against drones used for smuggling and surveillance. The newly tested 30-kilowatt system is expected to be inducted into service within the next two years.
This development signifies a major step forward for India’s defense capabilities, particularly in countering the growing threat of drones and other aerial platforms. The indigenous development and successful testing of this laser weapon system underscore India’s commitment to advancing its military technology.
