Current Context: On April 13, 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested the Mk-II(A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system, placing India among nations with advanced laser weapon capabilities.

About the System:

• Developed by Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), a DRDO lab in Hyderabad
• The system uses laser beams at light speed to neutralize drones, missiles, and surveillance equipment
• Targets are tracked via radar or Electro-Optic (EO) systems

Key Features & Significance:

• Cost–effective: Firing cost ≈ price of a few litres of petrol
• High precision: Causes structural failure with minimal collateral damage
• Counter-drone capability: Engages multiple drones and asymmetric threats
• A step towards replacing traditional kinetic defence systems