India has successfully tested a new 'Star Wars'-like laser weapon capable of shooting down drones several kilometres away.
The 30-kilowatt weapon, named Sahastra Shakti, was unveiled at the National Open Air Range in Kurnool city, Andhra Pradesh.
The test marks India's entry into next-generation laser weaponry, joining countries like the United States, Russia, China and Israel in developing such technology.
The Sahastra Shakti, which translates to "a thousand power", burns through targets at the speed of light after initially detecting them by radar.
The Sahastra Shakti, which translates to 'a thousand power', burns through targets at the speed of light after initially detecting them by radar
Defence Research & Development Organisation
According to Indian officials, the weapon consists of six high-energy lasers of 5KW each that converge into one powerful 30KW beam.
The system is deployed across two 4x4 vehicles - one that targets and tracks threats, and another that carries the machinery firing the beam.
During the test, the weapon successfully tracked and destroyed seven swarm drones at a range of 3.5km before knocking out a fixed-wing drone at an even greater distance.
"[The laser] defeated a fixed-wing UAV and swarm drones successfully, causing structural damage and disabling the surveillance sensors," said Samir Kamat, chairman of India's Defence Research and Development Organisation.
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The weapon consists of six high-energy lasers of 5KW each that converge into one powerful 30KW beam
Defence Research & Development Organisation
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Kamat added: "This is just the beginning of the journey. We are working on a number of technologies that will give us Star Wars capability."
Unlike traditional weapons, laser systems like Sahastra Shakti offer significant advantages on the battlefield.
They are cheaper, faster and more precise, making them particularly effective against drones and incoming munitions.
"This type of cutting-edge weaponry has the potential to revolutionise the battlespace by reducing the reliance on expensive ammunition, while also lowering the risk of collateral damage," said Kamat.
Unlike traditional weapons, laser systems like Sahastra Shakti offer significant advantages on the battlefield
Defence Research & Development Organisation
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The cost-effectiveness of the system is particularly notable, according to Indian officials.
Kamat explained: "The cost of firing it for a few seconds is equivalent to the cost of a couple of litres of petrol.
"Therefore, it has the potential to be a long-term and low-cost alternative to defeat the target."
Indian officials plan to further develop the weapon to fire multiple beams simultaneously, enabling it to destroy swarms of drones more effectively.
