India Joins Elite Club: DRDO Successfully Tests 30kW Laser Weapon Against Drones
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested a 30-kilowatt laser weapon system on April 13, 2025, at the National Open Air Range in Kurnool. This achievement puts India in an elite group of nations with advanced laser defense technology.
DRDO’s Sahastra Shakti System Proves Its Power
The laser weapon system, called “Sahastra Shakti” (Thousand Powers), showed impressive results during testing. The system demonstrated its ability to neutralize fixed-wing UAVs and drone swarms by causing structural damage and disabling surveillance sensors, with an effective range of 3.5–5 kilometers.
Key performance highlights include:
- Successfully destroyed multiple drone targets
- Disabled enemy surveillance equipment and antennas
- Neutralized coordinated drone attack formations
- Operated effectively at maximum 5km range
- Caused structural damage to fixed-wing aircraft
India Joins Global Defense Elite
India has joined the list of selected countries, including the US, China, and Russia, that have shown laser weapon capability against fixed-wing aircraft, missiles and swarm drones. This milestone demonstrates India’s growing strength in homegrown defense technology.
Advanced Technology Features
The 30-kilowatt laser system includes several cutting-edge features:
- Vehicle-mounted mobile platform for flexibility
- 360-degree electro-optical and infrared sensors
- Electronic warfare integration capabilities
- Command and control systems on separate vehicles
- All-weather operational capability
Private Sector Partnership Plans
DRDO announced plans to transfer the Mk-II(A) 30kW Laser Directed Energy Weapon technology to private sector companies following the successful trials. This move aims to boost production capacity and meet Indian Army requirements for anti-drone defense systems.
Future Development Goals
The success of the 30kW system opens doors for more powerful variants. DRDO continues developing enhanced versions to strengthen India’s defense capabilities against evolving aerial threats.
Strategic Importance for National Security
This laser weapon technology addresses critical defense needs:
- Counter-drone operations along borders
- Protection of sensitive military installations
- Defense against swarm attack tactics
- Surveillance equipment neutralization
- Cost-effective alternative to missile systems
Technology Transfer Timeline
The Indian Army has shown strong interest in deploying these laser weapons. DRDO’s partnership with private manufacturers will accelerate production timelines and ensure wider availability across defense forces.
