India gets first laser-based weapon to shoot down aerial targets, joins select list of countries

India's DRDO has developed a new laser-based weapon to take down aerial targets. (Image: ANI)

In a first, India has successfully developed a laser-based weapon system that can neutralise aerial targets, including fixed-wing aircraft, missiles and swarm drones, marking a huge milestone in the country’s defence technology.

India has joined the list of elite countries, including the US, China, and Russia, to possess such advanced laser weapon capabilities.

#WATCH | Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh: For the first time, India has showcased its capability to shoot down fixed-wing aircraft, missiles and swarm drones using a 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system. India has joined list of selected countries, including the US, China, and Russia, pic.twitter.com/fjGHmqH8N4

ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2025

A team of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) officials tested the new 30-kilowatt laser-based directed-energy weapon (DEW) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, with positive results, ANI reported.

The indigenously designed and developed Mk-II(A) DEW system was demonstrated in its entire spectrum of capability by engaging the fixed wing drones at long range, thwarting a multiple drone attack and destroying enemy surveillance sensors and antennae, according to DRDO sources, News18 reported.

The lightning speed of engagement, accompanied by the precision of the strike within a few seconds, makes it one of the most potent counter-drone systems. This weapon system was developed by DRDO’s Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), Hyderabad.

"CHESS DRDO conducted a successful field demonstration of the Land version of Vehicle mounted Laser Directed Weapon(DEW) MK-II(A) at Kurnool today. It defeated the fixed wing UAV and Swarm Drones successfully causing structural damage and disabled the surveillance sensors. With this successful trial country has joined the exclusive club of the Global powers who possess the high power Laser DEW System," the DRDO said in a post on X.

This laser-based weapon can target aerial threats like drones and helicopters within a range of 5 km and also includes electronic warfare capabilities like jamming communication and satellite signals.

The DEW will replace traditional kinetic weapons and missile defence systems due to its ease of operation and cost-effectiveness. The requirement for cost-effective defence solutions to offset the low-cost drone attacks is driving the adoption of DEWs by military organisations worldwide.