Have you ever watched a sci-fi movie with laser weapons and thought, "That's cool, but it's just fiction"? Well, think again. Things are about to get real now, in the real world, many countries including India are working on turning movie fantasies into real technology. Behind the scenes, countries are working to bring laser weapons out of the world of fiction and into reality. Let's take a closer and more comprehensive look at how such tech is evolving. Credit: Lockheed Martin Directed energy weapons (DEWs) Directed energy weapons (DEWs) are weapons that emit focused energy and are intended to target specific objects or individuals. Unlike conventional weapons that use projectiles (like bullets or missiles) to cause damage, DEWs use various forms of energy, such as lasers, and microwaves to achieve their destructive effects. But did you know that, there was an instance where ancient Greeks used Sunlight to set Roman ships on fire, by focusing the sun rays? From Archimedes to Star Wars The concept of directing focused energy towards enemy targets dates back to ancient times, with one notable example being attributed to the Greek polymath Archimedes during the Siege of Syracuse in 212 BCE. According to historical accounts, Archimedes is said to have used polished mirrors to concentrate sunlight onto approaching Roman ships, igniting them and causing damage, but this event is debated among historians, but it shows how concentrated beams can be used. Credit: Historic Mysteries In modern times, the origins of laser systems can be traced back to the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), commonly known as the "Star Wars" program, initiated by US President Ronald Reagan in the 1980s. The SDI aimed to develop advanced missile defence technologies to counter the threat of Soviet intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) during the Cold War. One of the key components of the SDI was the exploration of directed energy weapons, including lasers, as potential interceptors for ballistic missiles. The program led significant research and development efforts into laser technology, leading to breakthroughs in high-energy laser systems and their applications for missile defence. While the ambitious goals of the Star War were never fully realized, the program laid the groundwork for subsequent advancements in laser weapon systems and their integration into modern military arsenals. Along with the Americans the Soviet Union also started their parallel developments in laser weapon systems during the Cold War era. One notable example is the Soviet Skif program, which aimed to develop a laser anti-satellite system capable of intercepting and disabling enemy satellites in space. But DEW's are not just about Laser Guns, DEW also includes microwave-based weapons. There Are Two Types of DEW High Energy Lasers (HELs) High Energy Lasers (HELs) are directed energy weapons that utilize concentrated beams of light energy to damage or destroy targets. The beam generated is directed towards the intended target. When the laser beam makes contact with the target, one common effect is heating, where the target material rapidly absorbs the laser energy, the intense heat generated by the laser beam can ignite or burn flammable materials present on the target, which can be particularly useful for neutralizing threats like drones. The structural integrity of the target can be compromised, this can lead to physical damage or destruction. The laser beam's interaction with electronic components can disrupt their functionality, either by damaging them directly or by inducing malfunctions. This damage to electronic systems causes disruption or interference in enemy communications or control systems. High Powered Microwaves (HPMs) These devices produce intense microwave radiation and the energy is focused and directed into a target. These highly intense electromagnetic pulses induce the effects of electromagnetic interference(generating electromagnetic waves that interfere with the radar signals), ionization leading to plasma formation(plasma formation leads to disruption in communication), and disruption of communication systems. Military Applications Credit: CNET Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems: The increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones poses a significant challenge to military operations. Lasers offer efficient means to neutralize hostile drones by emitting high-intensity laser beams, disrupting their electronics, or causing physical damage to critical components. These systems can be deployable on land, sea, or airborne platforms. Counter-Rocket, Artillery, Mortar and Missiles Systems: These systems can also be used to intercept and destroy incoming rockets, artillery shells, and mortar rounds. It includes both guided and unguided. The best example would be the Israeli Iron Beam system which has been intercepting the rockets fired by the Hamas. Also, lasers can intercept and destroy incoming missiles by rapidly heating and weakening their components. Laser dazzlers(Temporary blinding or disruption of sensors, cameras, or other optical systems by directing a bright light source) disrupt the guidance systems of missiles or cause temporary blindness to their sensors, thereby impeding their ability to accurately track targets. It can also employ infrared countermeasure systems that emit intense infrared signals to confuse or divert heat-seeking missiles from their intended trajectories. Anti Satellite: Lasers can be used for anti-satellite (ASAT) purposes. Directed energy weapons can target a satellite's sensitive components such as solar panels, sensors, or communication antennas, disabling or destroying it. Also, lasers can interfere with a satellite's optical sensors or communication systems by dazzling or jamming them, disrupting their functioning. Counter Measure for Anti-Tank Missiles: Laser dazzlers or directed energy weapons can be used to disrupt the guidance systems of incoming missiles. Directing a high-intensity laser beam toward the incoming missile interferes with the sensors or optics used by the missile to track and lock onto its target, causing confusion or temporary blindness to the guidance system. Considering the evolving potency(lethality) of the anti-tank missiles, there is an urgent need for advanced anti-tank laser countermeasures. One such example that is in development is, BAE systems 'Terra Raven' countermeasure system that uses infrared countermeasures to protect armoured and ground vehicles. There is also a system developed by Raytheon which we will see further. Intercepting Hypersonic Missiles Laser weapon systems have the potential to intercept hypersonic missiles due to their high speed and precision. The speed of light allows lasers to engage targets almost instantly, making them suitable for countering hypersonic threats. However for intercepting hypersonic missiles, the power generation for such systems is high, though there isn't any exact upper limit, but a study by US Navy suggest, the power output of the system should be atleast 1000KW/1MW. There other challenges in this regard which are discussed below. Advancements and Developments in Laser Weapon Systems Currently In Service Worldwide YAL-1 (Airborne Laser): Originally designed to intercept ballistic missiles, the YAL-1 was mounted on a Boeing 747. However, due to exorbitant costs, each system totalling $2 billion, the project was ultimately abandoned. Directed Infrared Counter Measure (DIRCM): The Lockheed 'Tactical Airborne Laser Weapon System (TALWS)' deployed as a pod on fighter aircraft, serves to confuse incoming missile guidance systems, enhancing defense capabilities. Raytheon System on Stryker Combat Vehicle: Raytheon's laser system, "Directed Energy Maneuver-Short Range Air Defense, or DE M-SHORAD", integrated into the US Army's Stryker combat vehicle, has been undergoing rigorous testing since 2019. With 25,000 hours of testing and 400 confirmed kills, it demonstrated its effectiveness. Chinese LW30: China's LW30 boasts a 30KW laser, primarily utilized for intercepting airborne threats. There not much information about its capability and effectiveness. Israeli Iron Beam: Despite a lengthy development process, the Israeli Iron Beam has successfully able to intercepted rockets fired by groups like Hamas. UK's Dragon Fire Systems: The UK is working on cost-effective laser weaponry known as Dragon Fire Systems, which cost only 10 pounds per shot (approximately 1180 Indian Rupees), making it an economical defense solution. Russian Peresvet Anti-Satellite Laser: Russia's Peresvet system is focused on countering satellite threats by blinding or destroying reconnaissance satellites at altitudes of up to 1500 km. Indian Systems DRDO has been working on directed energy weapons since the late 1990s when in 1998, it established the Laser Science And Technology Centre. While much of the development remains confidential, there are some projects in the public. One such project is DURGA II (Directionally Unrestricted Ray-Gun Array), a formidable 25 kW system designed to target ballistic missiles during their terminal phase at an altitude of 5 km. Another such system is Aditya, a formidable 100 kW laser, thus it can said that DRDO has already tested the 100 kW system. Another system that has been already ordered by the navy is 'The Anti Drone System(ADS)', developed by DRDO has both hard kill and soft kill capabilities. The ADS can detect and jam micro drones and use a laser-based kill mechanism to terminate targets. The anti-drone system was first deployed to provide security cover for the Republic Day Parade this year and later during the Prime Minister's Independence Day Address to the Nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort. The system, which offers 360-degree coverage, was also deployed in Ahmedabad for the Modi-Trump roadshow. Indian Navy has signed a contract with Bharat Limited (BEL) for the supply of the indigenous Naval Anti Drone System (NADS). The Laser weapon systems offer several advantages over conventional kinetic weapons: Speed of Light: Laser beams travel at the speed of light, enabling near-instantaneous engagement of targets. This rapid response time increases the likelihood of successfully intercepting fast-moving threats. Precision and Accuracy: Laser weapons can precisely target specific components of a threat, such as engines or guidance systems, minimizing collateral damage and reducing the risk to civilians. Unlimited Ammunition: One the main advantages of unlike conventional weapons that require ammunition storage and resupply, laser systems draw power from an onboard source, providing virtually unlimited ammunition as long as there is energy available, thereby reducing logistical burdens. Low Cost Per Shot: Though we have to accept that the cost of developing and procuring systems may be high, but the operating cost in the long run would be economical, that is the cost per shot is significantly lower compared to traditional munitions, making them more cost-effective in the long term. For example, the cost of one stinger missile is around 38000 US dollars( in rupees 31,16,000 RS), whereas the same job can be done by Iron Beam with a cost of less than 2$. Credit: Popular Science Adaptability and Flexibility: Laser systems can be integrated into various platforms, including ground vehicles, aircraft, and naval vessels, providing flexibility in deployment and adaptation to evolving threats. They also provide flexibility in terms of power required for these systems. The smaller vehicles can be fitted with systems with lower power requirements. The Raytheon system which earlier we discussed has a 15KW system which can be suitable for smaller vehicles, is capable of intercepting smaller targets like drones, and mortar rounds. In addition to its defensive capability, it also provides an optical/ IR imaging system for reconnaissance and surveillance. However, There are Certain Challenges Associated With Such a System That Need To Be Sought Out Charging and Power Supply: Providing sufficient power to laser systems, especially in forward bases or operational areas, can be challenging. Ensuring continuous power supply and addressing charging logistics are critical for sustained operation. Heating and Maintenance: Laser systems generate significant heat during operation, particularly in hot desert environments, leading to potential overheating issues and increased maintenance requirements. Managing heat dissipation and conducting regular maintenance of such complex systems is essential to ensure system reliability. Attenuation and Line of Sight Limitations: Laser beams can experience attenuation(Lose their strength over the course) over long distances, reducing their effectiveness against distant targets. Moreover, laser weapons operate on the principle of line of sight, meaning they are obstructed by obstacles such as terrain features or atmospheric conditions, limiting their engagement range and effectiveness. Weather Impact: Adverse weather conditions, such as fog, rain, or dust storms, can degrade the performance of laser systems by scattering or absorbing the laser beam, reducing its power and accuracy. Target Engagement Time: Laser weapons require sustained focus on a target for a certain duration to inflict damage, which can be challenging when facing large swarms of fast-moving threats like drones. Rapid target acquisition and tracking capabilities are crucial to effectively engage multiple targets within a short timeframe. This problem is more concerning when it comes to intercepting hypersonic missiles with their speeds exceeding Mach 5, would leave minimal time for interception, necessitating rapid target acquisition. In conclusion, laser weapon systems offer effectiveness as low-cost defence solutions. Their precision, rapid response time, and virtually unlimited ammunition make them invaluable assets on the battlefield, augmenting conventional defence systems and providing an additional layer of protection against threats. While challenges such as power supply, maintenance, and atmospheric conditions may come as obstacles, with ongoing research and development efforts ensure that these issues will be effectively addressed in coming time.
