India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has made significant progress in developing laser-based directed-energy weapons (DEWs). Here's a concise overview based on recent developments:

• 30 kW Laser Weapon System: In April 2025, DRDO successfully demonstrated a 30-kilowatt vehicle-mounted laser system (Mk-II(A)) at Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. It neutralized fixed-wing UAVs, swarm drones, and surveillance sensors at ranges up to 5 km. The system is semi-automated, uses 360-degree Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensors for precise targeting, and can jam communication signals. It's ready for production and deployment across land, sea, and air platforms, with plans to scale up power and range for satellite-based applications.
• DURGA II: The Directionally Unrestricted Ray-Gun Array (DURGA) II is a 100 kW lightweight DEW under development, aimed at countering drones, missiles, and artillery shells. DRDO sought $100 million in 2025 to advance this project, which is designed for integration with sea, air, and land platforms. Testing has been ongoing, with earlier prototypes showing capability at shorter ranges.
• Surya Laser System: A 300 kW DEW named Surya is in development, with a reported range of 20 km. It targets high-speed aerial threats like drones, missiles, and subsonic cruise missiles, positioning India among global leaders in high-power laser technology.
• Other Efforts: DRDO's Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS) and Laser Science & Technology Centre (LASTEC) are key players. Past tests include a 1 kW truck-mounted laser in 2017 and a 2 kW system by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for anti-drone roles. Projects like the Chemical Oxygen Iodine Laser (COIL) and the Aditya gas-dynamic laser are also in progress.
• Global Context: India joins nations like the US, China, Russia, and Israel in advancing DEWs, driven by the need to counter drones, hypersonic missiles, and other modern threats. Challenges include power supply, cooling systems, and atmospheric interference, but DEWs offer precision, low cost per shot, and rapid engagement.

These systems enhance India's defense capabilities, particularly against aerial and missile threats, with ongoing efforts to increase power and versatility.