South Korea has announced the commencement of mass production of a low-cost laser weapon known as Block-I, designed to effectively target and shoot down small drones. The weapon has demonstrated successful results during testing, showcasing its ability to precisely strike small unmanned aerial vehicles and multicopters at close range.
The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) of South Korea revealed that each shot fired by the Block-I laser weapon would cost approximately $1.50, making it a cost-effective solution for drone defense. The weapon, which measures 9 meters by 3 meters by 3 meters, is equipped with advanced technology that enables it to fire laser rays that are difficult to detect before impact.
The Block-I weapon, which operates silently and invisibly, does not require separate ammunition and relies solely on electricity for operation. The DAPA also hinted at the development of an enhanced version, Block-II, with improved output and range capabilities to target larger threats such as aircraft and ballistic missiles.
In a time where small drones pose a significant threat to military assets globally, the introduction of the Block-I laser weapon could potentially shift the balance in favor of countries equipped with this technology. The weapon's ability to neutralize low-cost drones at a fraction of the cost of traditional defensive systems could prove to be a game-changer in modern warfare.
The successful development of the Block-I weapon comes after five years of research and a significant investment of over $63 million. The Korea Institute for Defense Analyses led the system development in collaboration with Hanwha Aerospace, culminating in the weapon's combat suitability evaluation in April 2023.
South Korea has become the first country to publicly announce the deployment of a mass-produced laser weapon, setting a new standard in defense technology. The Block-I laser weapon represents a significant advancement in military capabilities and could pave the way for future innovations in laser-based defense systems.
While other countries like Britain and the US have also made strides in laser weapon development, South Korea's Block-I stands out as a cost-effective and efficient solution to combat the growing threat of drones in modern warfare.
