India is entering a new era in air defence with the development of directed energy weapons (DEWs) aimed at neutralizing drone swarms and other low-cost aerial threats. At the forefront of this effort is the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), spearheading programs such as DURGA-II and the Mk-II(A) directed energy weapon system.
The Economics of Laser Defence
Laser weapons represent a paradigm shift in modern warfare economics. Traditional missile interceptors, such as the Tamir, cost tens of thousands of dollars per shot—often far exceeding the cost of the inexpensive drones they are used to destroy. In contrast, laser systems operate on electricity, making each shot inexpensive, roughly equivalent to a few litres of fuel. Analysts describe this as a “near-zero cost per shot” capability, particularly valuable when engaging multiple drone targets simultaneously.
Another key advantage is virtually unlimited magazine depth. While missile batteries are limited by the number of interceptors carried, laser systems can operate continuously as long as electrical power is available.
DURGA-II: High-Power Strategic Laser
The DURGA-II (Directionally Unrestricted Ray-Gun Array) is DRDO’s flagship laser program, designed as a heavy directed energy weapon with output exceeding 100 kilowatts. It is capable of engaging a wide range of aerial threats, including:
- Drones and swarm UAVs
- Cruise missiles
- Helicopters
- Aircraft sensors and external components
The laser works by concentrating energy on a target point, rapidly heating and damaging structural components or electronics.
Mk-II(A) DEW: Tactical Counter-Drone System
For tactical applications, DRDO has developed the Mk-II(A), a 30-kilowatt system optimized to neutralize small UAVs, swarm drones, and low-flying helicopters. In April 2025, trials at the Kurnool Drone Test Range demonstrated the system’s ability to track and destroy multiple drones using concentrated laser energy, marking a major step toward operational deployment.
Speed-of-Light Engagement
One of the greatest advantages of laser weapons is instant engagement. Unlike missiles, which take seconds to reach their target, a laser beam strikes almost immediately, making it ideal for fast-moving threats or swarm attacks. The precision of lasers allows selective target neutralization without creating explosive debris or collateral damage.
Strategic Implications for India
As drones and low-cost aerial threats proliferate globally, directed energy weapons are becoming increasingly important. For India, systems like DURGA-II and Mk-II(A) offer scalable, sustainable air defence that can complement existing missile systems and electronic warfare tools.
If fully deployed, these laser systems could form a key component of India’s layered air defence, providing rapid, cost-effective, and precise countermeasures against emerging aerial threats.
