India to Induct 16 Indigenous Laser-Based Anti-Drone Systems: A New Era in Aerial Defence

India is preparing to significantly strengthen its anti-drone shield as the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force move to induct 16 indigenous laser-based drone detection and interdiction systems. These systems, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), mark a major leap in India’s adoption of advanced directed-energy technologies. With hostile drones becoming one of the fastest-growing threats to national security, India’s transition to high-precision laser systems reflects both strategic foresight and technological maturity.

Image from Firstpost

DRDO’s Breakthrough: 10 kW Laser System With 2 km Range

At the core of this induction is DRDO’s 10-kilowatt laser module capable of neutralising enemy drones at a distance of up to 2 kilometres. This system, based on the improved DEW (Directed Energy Weapon) architecture, is equipped with modern electro-optical sensors and radar that allow the weapon to detect, track, and destroy aerial threats within seconds. Compared to older counter-drone systems relying on radio-frequency jamming or kinetic interceptors, this laser-based solution offers instantaneous engagement, minimal collateral damage, and significantly lower cost per shot.

Successful High-Energy Trials in Andhra Pradesh

India’s confidence in laser weapon systems grew after DRDO conducted a landmark trial of the advanced 30 kW Mk-II(A) laser in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. During the demonstration, the system successfully destroyed fixed-wing drones, surveillance payloads, and even simulated drone swarms. Mounted on a mobile platform, the system showcased rapid target acquisition and stabilization capabilities—features crucial for deployment in high-altitude regions and sensitive border zones.

Advantages Over Traditional Counter-Drone Systems

Laser weapons provide several inherent advantages that make them ideal for modern warfare. Since they rely on concentrated beams of energy rather than ammunition, each engagement costs only a fraction of conventional missiles or anti-aircraft rounds. The ability to fire repeatedly without reloading makes them highly effective against saturated drone attacks. Their precision also ensures that only the intended target is neutralised, avoiding broader damage to surrounding assets.

India’s Rising Position in Global Directed-Energy Research

With the induction of these systems, India joins a select group of technologically advanced nations—including the United States, Russia, China, and Israel—that have operational directed-energy capabilities. DRDO’s continued progress, including the upcoming 50–100 kW systems and research on future long-range lasers, positions India as an emerging leader in this domain. As global warfare transitions toward drone swarms, AI-guided UAVs, and autonomous aerial threats, India’s investment in DEWs ensures long-term readiness.

A Step Toward Self-Reliance Under Atmanirbhar Bharat

The development and deployment of these laser-based systems underline India’s commitment to defence indigenisation. By designing, testing, and scaling these weapons domestically, India reduces dependence on foreign counter-drone technologies. DRDO has already initiated technology transfers to private defence manufacturers, ensuring large-scale production and faster deployment across critical regions.

The MGMM Outlook

India’s decision to induct 16 indigenous laser-based anti-drone systems marks a major strategic leap in strengthening national security, especially at a time when hostile drones have become a frequent and evolving threat. From our viewpoint, this development reflects India’s growing confidence in self-reliant defence technologies and the maturity of DRDO’s directed-energy research. The 10 kW laser system with a 2 km range, supported by advanced electro-optical sensors and radar, shows how India is shifting from traditional jamming or kinetic interception toward high-precision, low-cost, instantaneous engagement methods. The successful testing of the more powerful 30 kW Mk-II(A) laser in Andhra Pradesh further demonstrates India’s readiness to adopt futuristic warfare systems capable of neutralising drone swarms and high-altitude threats.

This advancement also positions India among the few global leaders developing operational directed-energy weapons, placing the country in a stronger geopolitical and technological standing. What stands out from our perspective is how seamlessly this progress aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission—building defence capability not just for immediate use but for long-term strategic autonomy. With technology transfers already underway and plans for even more powerful 50–100 kW lasers, India is not merely responding to today’s threats but actively preparing for the drone-dominated warfare of the future. The induction of these systems signals a confident, future-ready India asserting itself in the rapidly evolving arena of aerial defence.

(Sources: Firstpost, India Today, NDTV)