South Korea has developed a new laser weapon designed to neutralize enemy drones, which was showcased by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) on July 30. The system uses fiber optics to generate an invisible directed- energy beam that heats the target’s surface to temperatures exceeding 700°C, effectively disabling internal components like batteries.
During the demonstration, three DJI Phantom 4 small multi-rotor drones were downed using the laser weapon system, which was operated by three individuals inside and emitted no visible light or sound. The weapon operates at an output of less than 100 kilowatts and a range of under 10 kilometers.
The development of this technology is a strategic response to the increasing threat posed by North Korean drones. In December 2022, South Korea’s airspace was breached by five drones launched by North Korea. Despite deploying fighter jets and helicopters, South Korea failed to shoot down any of these drones.
South Korea aims to enhance its defense capabilities by deploying this cutting-edge technology, particularly in addressing the escalating threat posed by North Korean unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The weapon is cost-efficient at approximately 2,000 South Korean won ($1.45) per shot and is capable of executing precise strikes against small UAVs.
This advanced system is a product of the collaboration between Hanwha Aerospace and DAPA under the “Star Wars project.” Production began on July 11 following a contract signed in late June between DAPA and Hanwha Aerospace, valued at USD 70 million. The delivery of the ‘Laser Based Anti-Aircraft Weapon Block-I’ to the Republic of Korea (RoK) Armed Forces is expected to begin later in 2024.
The long-term vision includes deploying laser beams in space to engage targets, which would represent a significant technological advancement. Globally, laser weapons have been attracting increasing attention, with countries such as Israel, China, Russia, France, India, Turkey, Iran, South Korea, and Japan investing in national programs to develop directed-energy weapons (DEWs).
Earlier this year, the UK announced successful tests of a high-power laser weapon, DragonFire, which typically costs less than $13 per shot. Meanwhile, the United States has also deployed a pair of high-energy lasers overseas to protect bases from drone and missile threats.
The international interest in DEWs stems from their potential to significantly alter military and economic dynamics in favor of the nations that master this technology.
Source: https://www.eurasiantimes.com/south-korea-fires-laser-weapon-to-shoo/amp/