Asik SyedIndia has made a significant leap in advanced military technology with the successful trial of the Mk-II(A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system. Conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this test—publicly acknowledged on April 13, 2025—places India among a select group of nations with operational high-energy laser weaponry. Designed to neutralize drones, missiles, and smaller threats with pinpoint accuracy, the Mk-II(A) signals a major breakthrough in countermeasure systems.
Overview of Mk-II(A) DEW
The Mk-II(A) is an entirely indigenous solution developed to address modern battlefield threats. It can engage fixed-wing drones and manage simultaneous drone attacks, effectively disabling enemy sensors, antennas, and surveillance systems. Its high-speed engagement and precision targeting make it a powerful tool in the fight against unmanned aerial threats.
Economical Yet Powerful
One of the Mk-II(A)’s most striking advantages is its cost-effectiveness. Operating this laser weapon costs about the same as a few litres of petrol, offering a far more sustainable alternative to conventional munitions. Its affordability makes it a viable long-term defence mechanism, especially against low-cost aerial threats like drones.
How It Works
The system strikes at light speed. Using onboard Electro-Optic (EO) sensors and radar, it locks onto a target and deploys a high-intensity laser beam capable of causing structural failure. It can also be used to disable warheads, dramatically increasing its tactical value. This laser-based solution not only minimizes collateral damage but also reduces dependence on expensive ammunition.
Behind the Technology
The Mk-II(A) was developed by CHESS (Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences), a DRDO lab located in Hyderabad. The project involved a wide network of collaborators—academic institutions, industrial partners, and other DRDO labs—highlighting India’s growing capability in defence R&D.
Changing the Face of Warfare
The rise of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and drone swarms demands new strategies. The Mk-II(A) DEW system offers an effective response to these asymmetric threats. Thanks to its ease of deployment and low operational costs, it is being seen as a potential replacement for conventional missile and kinetic defence systems.
What Lies Ahead
The Mk-II(A)’s successful test represents more than a technological milestone—it hints at a shift in global military doctrine. As armed forces worldwide seek solutions that are fast, efficient, and economical, Directed Energy Weapons like the Mk-II(A) are poised to play a central role in future conflicts, providing agile defence in an increasingly drone-dominated battlefield.
Neha Baruah
