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India to begin mass production of new laser anti-drone system — newspaper

The platform underwent successful testing in August 2025

NEW DELHI, September 23. /TASS/. India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) plans to begin mass production of a new mobile laser system designed to destroy drones, The Times of India reported.

The 30-kW laser system is capable of intercepting unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at a distance of up to 5 km. In August 2025, the platform underwent successful testing and will be ready for mass production in a few months at one of the DRDO’s partner companies.

This new development will allow the Indian Armed Forces to reduce their reliance on more expensive air defense systems to counter the threat posed by UAVs.

Previously, the DRDO developed a 2-kW laser weapon for destroying drones, which is already being manufactured by defense companies Adani, Astra, and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). India has also developed a 10-kW laser weapon for engaging aerial targets, with production contracts awarded to Larsen & Toubro and BEL.

As part of India’s ongoing Sudarshan Chakra program to develop a multi-layered air defense system, the DRDO is working on the development of 50-kW and 100-kW laser systems.