India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is getting ready to transfer the technology for its 30 kW anti-drone laser weapon system to the private sector so that it can be produced in large quantities.
This action comes after a successful set of field testing that confirmed the accuracy, dependability, and operational preparedness of the system in a variety of combat situations. It represents a major advancement in the deployment of directed-energy weapons (DEW) and the broader indigenisation of India’s counter-drone capabilities.
The 30kW laser weapon, created under DRDO’s Directed Energy Systems program, is intended to destroy low-speed airborne threats, hostile drones, and loitering munitions within line-of-sight.
The system uses precise electro-optical tracking and beam-control subsystems in conjunction with a high-energy fiber-laser architecture. In a matter of seconds, it may turn down the target’s propulsion or guiding systems, guaranteeing quick, non-kinetic interception with little collateral damage.
Field tests showed good performance against Category I and II unmanned aerial systems (UAS) at stand-off distances of up to 5 km. Target acquisition speed, beam stability in a range of air conditions, and integration with radar-based early warning systems were all assessed.
The weapon’s modular design improves multi-domain flexibility by enabling mobility deployment on ground vehicles or mounting on naval and fixed-site platforms.
Many private defence companies are anticipated to compete for limited-series production and scaling after the technology transfer. This is India’s first high-powered DEW project to transition from laboratory development to industrial manufacturing.
DRDO’s Transfer of Technology (ToT) structure will oversee the process, guaranteeing quality control, protecting intellectual property, and integrating with service-specific operational doctrines.
An integral part of India’s counter-UAS infrastructure, the 30kW anti-drone laser connects kinetic systems such as radar-guided gun modules and the DRDO-BEL RF jammer suite. The system is perfect for long-term operations in forward areas because of its energy-based engagement, which reduces logistical reliance on ammunition.
It can carry out autonomous identification, tracking, and engagement with little assistance from humans when connected to automated detection networks.
From a strategic standpoint, this endeavour places India among the few countries that can produce tactical-grade laser systems domestically, strengthening its position in the global directed-energy weapons arena.
The private sector’s involvement supports co-development, export potential, and technological diffusion across several industrial tiers in line with the Ministry of Defence’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” policy.
The 30 kW laser weapon’s successful confirmation by DRDO highlights a larger trend towards next-generation warfare technologies. India’s armed services will have a scalable deterrent against changing drone threats thanks to its impending mass manufacturing, and the home sector will further solidify its position as a key player in future combat innovation.
