India has officially entered the era of laser weaponry, posing a significant threat to enemy drones. The Indian Army and Air Force are preparing to deploy 16 advanced indigenous systems designed to detect and neutralize unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These cutting-edge systems utilize powerful laser beams to obliterate drones from up to 2 kilometers away, effectively turning them into falling debris before they can reach their targets. This development marks a significant leap in India’s aerial defense capabilities.
The latest iteration of the Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System (Mark 2), developed by DRDO, boasts a potent 10-kilowatt laser. This advancement doubles the drone-killing range of the previous generation, which operated at 1 kilometer. Defense officials have confirmed that this enhanced system is a direct strategic response to Pakistan’s use of drone swarm tactics. Previous encounters saw these swarms neutralized, and India is now bolstering its defenses with even more formidable technology.
DRDO is not resting on its laurels, with plans for even greater range. A 30-kilowatt ‘direct energy weapon’ system is currently undergoing trials, demonstrating the capability to strike targets at an impressive 5 kilometers. Once operational, this system will establish a formidable exclusion zone, rendering enemy drones, missiles, and aircraft vulnerable.
India has joined an elite group of nations possessing advanced laser weapon technology, including the United States, China, and Russia. Earlier this year, India successfully demonstrated its ability to intercept fixed-wing aircraft, missiles, and drone swarms using laser-based systems. These demonstrations showcased the system’s effectiveness in causing immediate structural damage and disabling surveillance equipment.
The increasing reliance on drones in modern warfare necessitates robust countermeasures. India’s deployment of these integrated drone detection systems is crucial for safeguarding its borders, military installations, and strategic assets. The development is a proactive measure against the evolving threat landscape.
Looking ahead, DRDO envisions a comprehensive suite of futuristic weaponry, including directed energy weapons like high-energy microwaves and electromagnetic pulses, aiming to provide India with unparalleled ‘Star Wars’ level defense capabilities.