Many people may associate the term “laser weapon” with science fiction films. However, it has now moved from the realm of fantasy into the real world. Laser weapons are no longer just a dream of the future, but have become an important part of modern warfare. Because of its affordability, accuracy, and ability to respond quickly, this technology is currently being used by the most powerful nations in the world.
What is a Laser Weapon?
A laser weapon is a directed energy weapon that uses a high-energy light beam to strike a specific target. It is also called DEW (Directed Energy Weapon). It can instantly burn down drones, missiles, or anything else.
Advantages of laser weapon Systems:
- Fast response (Speed of light)
- Highly accurate
- Low cost per shot
- No need for complex ammunition
Worldwide Development of Laser Weapon
United States: HELIOS and DE M-SHORAD
The United States is one of the leading countries in the use of laser weapons.
- HELIOS (High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical-dazzler and Surveillance) is the US Navy’s advanced laser system. It is mounted on warships and is capable of stopping drones, small boats, and even missiles.
- The US Army developed the 50kW DE M-SHORAD laser and mounted it on Army vehicles to eliminate rockets and drones.
Read more about HELIOS and DE M-SHORAD laser weapons.
India: DRDO’s DEW System, KALI, and DURGA II
In 2025, India’s DRDO successfully tested a Directed Energy Weapon (DEW), which has a power of 30 kW and is capable of destroying drones at a distance of 5 km.
KALI (Kilo Ampere Linear Injector):
A secret project, which can essentially disable enemy electronic devices by projecting EMP (Electromagnetic Pulse) waves.
DURGA II (Directionally Unrestricted Ray-Gun Array):
The Indian Army is developing a 100-kilowatt laser weapon that could be very useful in future battlefields.
China: Silent Hunter and LW-30
China has also made great progress in this technology.
- Silent Hunter is a portable laser weapon that can shoot down drones at distances of up to four kilometers.
- The LW-30 laser system is being used by the PLA (People’s Liberation Army).
Russia: Peresvet
Russia has introduced its Peresvet laser weapon, which is capable of blinding satellites and intercepting hypersonic missiles.
Israel: Iron Beam
Israel has introduced a laser weapon called “Iron Beam” after its “Iron Dome” system. It can destroy incoming threats very cheaply and quickly.
Laser Weapon vs Traditional Weapons
| Characteristic | Laser Weapons | Traditional Weapons |
|---|---|---|
| Response time | Instantaneous (Speed of Light) | A few seconds or minutes |
| Cost per shot | Very low (mainly electricity costs) | High (price of ammunition) |
| Repetition | Repeatedly | Limited ammunition |
| Maintenance | Standard | excessive costly |
| Accuracy | High | Medium to high |
Limitations of the Laser Weapon System
Although the future of laser weapons is bright, there are some real problems:
- Weather Dependency: Fog or rain can reduce the effectiveness of the laser beam.
- Huge power requirements: High-power lasers require larger power systems.
- System Overheating: The laser weapon overheats after prolonged use.
Future of Warfare
The world’s major powers are now researching space-based laser weapons. Laser weapons could be one of the best solutions to counter hypersonic missiles or swarms of drones.
Projected Evolution of Laser Weapons by 2030:
- Mobile laser unit to stop drones on the battlefield
- Installation of up to 300kW laser systems on warships
- Space-deployable laser weapon
Unique Insight: My personal observation
When I read the news of DRDO’s laser tests in 2025, I realized that India is truly preparing for future wars. Technologically, we may still be a bit behind America or China, but such directed energy technology has been needed for a long time to counter new threats like drone warfare. In my opinion, if India can make significant progress on the DURGA II project by 2026, it will bring a huge change in India’s defense strategy.
Conclusion: Are laser weapons the future of warfare?
These days, “laser weapons” are more than just science fiction. They are real and effective. Due to its speed, accuracy, and affordability, militaries all over the world are now using this technology. Despite certain drawbacks, this technology will become more useful and effective in the upcoming years as a result of research and development.
Remember to leave a comment if you believe laser weapons will transform warfare in the future.
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