Equipped With 10kW Lasers
a mobile laser-based counter-unmanned aircraft system prototype
In response to drone warfare including the menacing FPVs (kamikaze drones), Japan has developed a mobile laser system specifically aimed for counter-drone operations.
The project itself actually started in 2010s, and was unveiled in November 2024 during a military parade as the laser-based mobile counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS).
The laser system is mounted on a 8×8 heavy truck, originally developed as a recovery vehicle, alongside a power source and cooling unit.
While the search radar is manually deployed outside the vehicle, the system has managed to consolidate its functions onto a single truck.
The 10 kW laser features a range of about 1.2km (0.7 mile), and is fired from a rotating turret equipped with an infrared camera and laser rangefinder for target tracking.
Unlike missiles, the laser system can operate continuously with a power source at significantly lower costs, making it a cost-effective measure against cheap drones.
Videos released by the Ministry of Defense’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) has shown the laser incinerating drones, thus shooting them down to the ground.
But, since the weapon was designed primarily for small drones, its 10 kW output is inadequate for intercepting missiles or other large projectiles.
Therefore, Japan is developing a more powerful 100 kW-class laser to counter missiles and artillery shells, though this will result in a much larger configuration. Tests conducted in 2023 has successfully destroyed 81mm mortar rounds, but the challenge remains on how to make the stationary weapon more mobile.
Overall, despite marking significant progress, the Japanese C-UAS is still a prototype that was only revealed to the public as a sneak-peak.
Its effectiveness against fast-moving FPVs remains uncertain, and the Japanese Self-Defense Forces cannot conduct tests under such scenarios as they have yet to possess any kamikaze drones.
Although the new C-UAS showcases Japan’s potential to operate a cost-efficient countermeasure against drones, further advancements are required to ensure its effectiveness on the battlefield.
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