DRDO Unveils High-Powered Indigenous Laser Weapon Project 'DURGA II'
DRDO's Project DURGA II: A New Era of Laser Weapon Systems
The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) in India is set to test the real-life prototype of its indigenous laser weapon system, DURGA II. This high-powered laser weapon project represents a significant advancement in the development of directed energy weapons (DEWs) for the Indian Armed Forces.
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| DRDO unveils high-powered indigenous laser weapon project ‘DURGA II’ |
Characteristics and Capabilities of DURGA II
DURGA II, which stands for Directionally Unrestricted Ray-Gun Array, is a light-directed energy weapon designed to emit highly concentrated energy, typically in the form of a laser. This weapon system is expected to deliver a power output of 100 kW, making it capable of neutralizing a range of threats, including drones, missiles, and artillery shells.
The Laser Science and Technology Center (LSTC) in New Delhi is reportedly the key hub of the classified DURGA II project. The Indian government has allocated $100 million for this project, emphasizing its strategic importance. Early successes include a 25 kW laser capable of targeting missiles at a distance of 5 km.
Advantages of Laser Weapons
Laser weapons offer a high kill probability, with the potential to achieve 100 percent effectiveness. They are lightweight and can be used by the armed forces in various applications. Additionally, laser weapons emit electromagnetic radiation in the microwave frequency range, enabling them to disrupt or damage electronic systems such as computers, sensors, and communication devices.
International Context and Directed Energy Weapons
Several countries are exploring the development of directed energy weapons. Russia, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Israel, and China are among the nations reportedly planning to develop DEWs or laser-directed energy weapons. These systems are not only used for engaging targets and missile defense but also for disabling electronic systems.
Conclusion
The unveiling of DRDO's DURGA II project represents a major step forward in the development of high-powered laser weapon systems. With its potential to provide the Indian Armed Forces with advanced technology for neutralizing threats, DURGA II is poised to become a critical component of India's defense capabilities.
As laser weapons continue to evolve, the implications for modern warfare and defense are profound. The development of indigenous technologies like DURGA II reflects India's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities and staying at the forefront of military technology.
