India’s Mark-2(A) Laser Blitz: Outgunning Pakistan, Challenging China, Saving Crores

India's Mark-2(A) not only outpaces Pakistan’s capabilities but also narrows the gap with China’s more advanced systems.

India has made a stunning leap in defense technology with the successful test of the Laser Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) Mark-2(A), developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO). Showcased and tested on April 13, 2025, at the National Open Air Range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, this cutting-edge weapon proved its power by destroying drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at a range of up to 5 kilometers. This breakthrough not only strengthens India’s security against modern threats but also offers a far cheaper alternative to traditional weapons, challenging the advancements of neighbors like China and Pakistan.

The Mark-2(A), crafted by DRDO’s Center for High Energy Systems and Science (CHESS), was demonstrated in a field trial where it obliterated a fixed-wing UAV and swarm drones, damaging their structures and disabling sensors with a 30-kilowatt laser beam. It can also jam enemy communications, adding to its tactical edge. The test in Kurnool highlighted its precision, using laser beams that strike at the speed of light, guided by advanced radar and electro-optic systems. Unlike traditional missile systems, which can cost lakhs per shot—around ₹50-70 lakh for a single missile like the Akash—the Mark-2(A) operates on just a few liters of petrol, costing roughly ₹200-300 per use, making it a budget-friendly powerhouse.

This laser weapon is designed to counter growing dangers like drones, missiles, and helicopters, which are tough to spot and can strike swiftly. It protects key defense sites, borders, and cities by neutralizing low-cost, high-impact threats with unmatched accuracy. Its ability to hit multiple targets without heavy ammunition makes it a vital tool for India, especially amid tensions with neighbors. By slashing defense costs compared to traditional systems, the Mark-2(A) supports India’s *Atmanirbhar Bharat* vision, proving that homegrown innovation can outshine expensive imports.

China is a major player in directed energy weapons, with systems like the ZKZM-500, a 50-kilowatt laser rifle, and the Sheng-1, a 100-kilowatt laser targeting drones at 2 kilometers. Reports indicate China’s LW-30, a 30-kilowatt system, can hit targets up to 25 kilometers away, used against drones and precision-guided weapons. China’s efforts also include anti-satellite lasers, showing its advanced capabilities. India’s Mark-2(A), effective at 5 kilometers, is a strong contender but trails China’s longer-range systems, though its recent test shows rapid progress.

Pakistan, however, is far behind in laser weapon technology. While there are rumors of Pakistan exploring directed energy systems, no solid evidence confirms operational weapons like India’s Mark-2(A) or China’s arsenal. Pakistan leans on China for military support, and there’s talk it might gain access to systems like the ZKZM-500 for anti-drone or crowd-control roles. For now, Pakistan focuses on conventional arms and drones, with no verified DEW trials to rival India’s achievement on April 13, 2025.

The Kurnool trial builds on DRDO’s earlier work, like a 1-kilowatt laser tested in 2017 at Chitradurga. The Mark-2(A)’s success shows India has tackled challenges like power and cooling, but extending its range and making it portable for air or sea use remains a goal. DRDO plans to push further, eyeing 100-kilowatt systems like DURGA II to counter bigger threats, such as ballistic missiles. The cost advantage is clear: while traditional defenses drain budgets—a single Barak-8 missile costs over ₹7 crore—the Mark-2(A)’s low running cost makes it a smart choice for long-term security.

India’s Mark-2(A) not only outpaces Pakistan’s capabilities but also narrows the gap with China’s more advanced systems. Its ability to stop modern threats quickly, accurately, and cheaply could reshape how India defends itself. As drones and missiles become common in warfare, this laser weapon will likely guard India’s borders and key sites effectively. With more trials planned, DRDO’s scientists are working tirelessly to keep India ahead, ensuring this breakthrough leads to a safer, stronger future.

(The author Girish Linganna of this article is an award-winning Science Writer and a Defence, Aerospace & Political Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. You can reach him, at: girishlinganna@gmail.com)