DRDO DEW System: During ‘Operation Sindoor’, the world witnessed the efficiency of air defense systems like ‘Akash’ and S-400. India’s defense technology isn’t limited to just rockets and missiles.
The country also possesses Directed Energy Weapons (DEW), a laser defense shield. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently announced the successful trial of a Mk-II(A) Laser– Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system “mastering the technology of disabling missiles, drones and smaller projectiles.” This is the kind of technology seen in the Star Wars movie series – capable of turning enemy drones, helicopters, and even missiles into ashes mid-air.
“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,” the statement said. “The lightning speed of engagement, the precision and the lethality delivered at the target within few seconds made it the most potent counter drone system.”
Here are some of the key details:
- In April 2025, DRDO successfully tested a 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system.
- This technology promises to play a decisive role in future warfare.
- While systems like Akash, S-400, and Barak-8 are already serving as defense shields, the laser shield makes India virtually invincible.
- This laser defense system can track and destroy any aerial threat within a range of 5 kilometers.
- It is equipped with 360-degree Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensors that can detect and neutralize targets approaching from any direction.
- It can be deployed not only on land but also on warships, and it can be easily transported and stationed via air, rail, road, or sea routes.
- This laser system can destroy drones, helicopters, and missiles within a 5 km range in seconds.
- During testing, it successfully shot down fixed-wing aircraft and swarm drones mid-air.
- It also has the capability to jam enemy communications and satellite signals.
- It doesn’t use any explosives or missiles – it operates solely with laser light, making it a ‘massless’ weapon.
Star War Capabilities:
DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat described it as the first step towards a ‘Star Wars capability’. He said, “So far, only the US, Russia, and China have demonstrated such technology. Israel is also working in this direction. We are the fourth or fifth country to have demonstrated this capability.” This means India has now joined the elite club of nations that possess advanced Directed-Energy Weapon (DEW) systems.
The trial was carried at the National Open Air Range, Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh. The system was developed by DRDO’s Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), Hyderabad along with other labs, academic institutions and Indian industries.