My article published on The EurasianTimes website on 16 Apr 25.
India successfully tested its first high-energy laser weapon, the Mk-II(A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW), on April 13, 2025, at the National Open Air Range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the 30-kilowatt laser system demonstrated the ability to neutralise fixed-wing, swarm, and surveillance sensors precisely at ranges up to 5 kilometers. The weapon can engage targets at the speed of light, using a laser beam to cause structural failure or destroy warheads, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional ammunition with minimal collateral damage.
The test places India among a select group of nations, including the US, China, and Russia, with advanced laser weapon capabilities. DRDO plans to induct the land-based system within two years, with future upgrades for greater range and applications on ships, aircraft, and satellites. A more powerful 300-kilowatt “Surya” laser capable of targeting high-speed missiles and drones up to 20 kilometers away. Posts on social media highlight the weapon’s potential to counter aerial threats effectively.
Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) represent a transformative leap in military technology. They harness concentrated energy to neutralise threats with unprecedented precision and speed, a feat once only a part of science fiction. Unlike conventional munitions, which rely on physical projectiles or explosives, DEWs deliver energy through lasers, microwaves, or particle beams to disable or destroy targets.
Directed Energy Weapons
At their core, DEWs operate by focusing energy to create destructive effects. The most prominent type, laser-based DEWs, emit highly focused beams of light that travel at the speed of light (approximately 300,000 kilometers per second). When this beam strikes a target, it transfers intense heat, causing structural failure, melting critical components, or detonating warheads. For instance, India’s 30-kilowatt Mk-II(A) laser demonstrated its ability to neutralise drones and sensors up to 5 kilometers away by inducing catastrophic overheating in seconds.
Microwave-based DEWs, another category, emit electromagnetic pulses to disrupt or destroy electronic systems. These are particularly effective against swarms of drones or missile guidance systems, as they can disable multiple targets simultaneously within a wide area. Though less developed, particle beam weapons accelerate charged particles to damage targets at the molecular level, offering potential for future applications.
The advantages of DEWs are manifold. They require no physical ammunition, reducing logistical burdens and costs—engagements are estimated to cost mere dollars per shot compared to thousands for missiles. This cost-effectiveness is a significant advantage in modern warfare. Their speed-of-light delivery ensures near-instantaneous impact, critical for countering fast-moving threats like hypersonic missiles. Additionally, DEWs produce minimal collateral damage, making them ideal for precision strikes in populated areas.
Historical Context and Global Development
The concept of DEWs dates back to science fiction, with early inspirations from works like H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds. However, serious development began during the Cold War, with the United States and Soviet Union exploring laser technologies for missile defence. This historical context provides a deeper understanding of the evolution of technology. The U.S. Strategic Defence Initiative in the 1980s, often dubbed “Star Wars,” aimed to deploy space-based lasers to intercept ballistic missiles, though technological limitations stalled progress.
In recent decades, advancements in power generation, beam control, and thermal management have brought DEWs closer to battlefield reality. The United States has led the charge, with systems like the Navy’s 150-kilowatt Laser Weapon System (LaWS) deployed on ships to counter drones and small boats. Israel’s Iron Beam, designed to complement the Iron Dome, uses lasers to intercept rockets and mortars cost-effectively. China and Russia have also invested heavily, with China’s Silent Hunter laser system reportedly capable of disabling vehicles and drones, and Russia’s Peresvet laser designed for air defence and satellite disruption. These developments can potentially reshape international relations as countries with advanced DEW capabilities gain new strategic advantages.
Applications in Modern Warfare
DEWs are poised to revolutionise defence across multiple domains. On land, they offer robust protection against drones, a growing threat in asymmetric warfare. The proliferation of low-cost drones, as seen in conflicts like Ukraine, has exposed vulnerabilities in traditional air defences. Laser systems provide a sustainable countermeasure with their low per-shot cost and unlimited “magazine” (limited only by power supply). For example, India’s Mk-II(A) successfully neutralised a swarm of drones, a capability critical for border security.
DEWs enhance naval defence against anti-ship missiles, small boats, and unmanned aerial vehicles at sea. The U.S. Navy’s High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical-Dazzler and Surveillance (HELIOS) system, integrated into destroyers, exemplifies this trend. For India, equipping warships with laser systems could strengthen maritime security in the Indian Ocean, a vital trade corridor.
In the air, DEWs are being developed for aircraft to counter incoming missiles. The U.S. Air Force’s Self-Protect High Energy Laser Demonstrator (SHiELD) aims to equip fighter jets with laser pods for missile defence. India’s vision to mount lasers on aircraft could enhance its air superiority, particularly against regional adversaries with growing missile arsenals.
Space-based DEWs, though controversial, represent the next frontier. Lasers could disable enemy satellites or defend against anti-satellite weapons, securing critical communication and reconnaissance assets. India’s planned satellite-mounted lasers underscore its intent to safeguard its space infrastructure.
Challenges and Limitations
Despite their promise, DEWs face significant hurdles. Atmospheric conditions like rain, fog, or dust can scatter or weaken laser beams, reducing their effectiveness. India’s DRDO addresses this through advanced beam control systems, but challenges persist in diverse terrains like the Himalayas. Power requirements also pose a barrier—high-energy lasers demand substantial electricity, necessitating compact, efficient generators. For mobile platforms, this remains a logistical challenge.
Cost and scalability are additional concerns. While DEWs are cheaper per shot, initial development and deployment costs are high. India’s Mk-II(A) required years of investment, and scaling to systems like the Surya laser will demand further resources. Finally, countermeasures like reflective coatings or electronic hardening could reduce DEW effectiveness, sparking an arms race in defensive technologies. It’s important to note that while DEWs offer significant advantages, they are not without vulnerabilities. Developing effective countermeasures will be a key area of focus in the future.
Future of Directed Energy Weapons
The global DEW market is expected to grow rapidly, fuelled by increasing threats from drones, missiles, and electronic warfare. India’s roadmap, which includes the induction of the Mk-II(A) by 2027 and the development of the Surya laser, positions the country as a key player. Collaborative efforts with allies could hasten progress, while indigenous innovation ensures strategic autonomy.
Beyond military applications, DEWs have the potential for civilian uses, such as removing space debris or disaster response (e.g., disabling hazardous objects). Their integration into multi-layered defence systems—combining lasers, missiles, and electronic warfare—will redefine warfare as technology matures.
Conclusion
Directed Energy Weapons mark a paradigm shift in defence, offering speed, precision, and economy unmatched by traditional systems. India’s successful test of the Mk-II(A) laser underscores its emergence as a technological power, capable of shaping the future of warfare. While challenges remain, the trajectory is clear: DEWs are not just the stuff of science fiction but a cornerstone of 21st-century security. As nations race to master this technology, the balance of power—and the ethics of its use—will shape the decades ahead.
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Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.
References: –
DRDO Press Release. “Successful Test of Mk-II(A) Laser Directed Energy Weapon Conducted by DRDO.” April 13, 2025.
My Article was published on the Indus International Research Foundation Website on 20 Mar 25.
In the modern battlefield, timely and accurate information is paramount. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in various sectors, and its integration into the military is particularly notable. AI’s integration into strategic and tactical decision-making transforms military operations by enabling leaders to anticipate potential threats, optimise resource allocation, and make faster, data-driven decisions. AI rapidly becomes a core tool for enhancing military decision-making, revolutionising strategies, and operational efficiency. It reshapes how military leaders approach battlefield tactics, logistics, and strategic planning through rapid data processing, sophisticated simulations, and predictive analysis. As armed forces worldwide increasingly adopt AI technologies, the implications for strategy, tactics, and operational efficiency are profound. While AI offers unprecedented benefits, its integration in military contexts introduces ethical concerns and strategic challenges that are central to its future role.
The Evolution of AI in Military Applications. The military’s interest in AI is not recent; it dates back several decades. The initial exploration of AI technologies in military contexts began in the 1950s and 1960s, focusing on simulations and rudimentary decision support systems. Over the years, advancements in machine learning, data analytics, and computational power have dramatically enhanced the capabilities of AI systems. In the 1960s, AI research focused on symbolic reasoning and game theory, with early applications in strategic simulations. The Cold War era spurred investments in AI research as nations sought technological advantages. The Gulf War in the early 1990s highlighted the importance of information superiority. AI technologies began integrating command and control systems, enabling real-time data analysis and enhanced situational awareness. The development of drones and unmanned systems marked a significant shift, with AI increasingly applied to operational contexts. Today, AI applications in the military encompass various areas, including autonomous vehicles, predictive analytics, intelligence gathering, and combat simulations. Countries like the United States, China, and Russia are investing heavily in AI research to enhance their military capabilities.
Benefits of AI in Military. Integrating AI into the military offers significant benefits, including increased efficiency, accuracy, and situational awareness. AI technologies streamline processes and enhance operational efficiency. By automating routine tasks, military personnel can focus on strategic planning and execution. AI systems improve the accuracy of military operations by providing data-driven insights that reduce human error. Analysing data in real time enhances decision-making, particularly in high-stakes environments. AI technologies improve situational awareness by integrating data from various sources, providing commanders with a comprehensive understanding of the battlefield. These practical advantages underscore the importance of AI in military decision-making.
AI in Military Contexts.
AI in the military can be broadly classified as data analytics, autonomous systems, decision support, and cyber defence. Its ability to quickly process large volumes of data and identify patterns has made AI a powerful tool for intelligence analysis, operational planning, and logistics optimisation.
Data Analytics and ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance). AI-driven data analytics enhance ISR capabilities by analysing satellite images, social media data, intercepted communications, and more to identify potential threats. AI systems analyse real-time ISR data, recognising patterns that may indicate enemy movements or hidden threats. Machine learning models trained on historical data help predict potential adversarial actions, giving military leaders a tactical advantage. For example, deep learning models analyse satellite and drone imagery, identifying military installations, troop movements, or equipment locations with minimal human input. By providing commanders with this intelligence in near real-time, AI reduces the time needed to make informed tactical decisions.
Simulation and War Gaming. AI-powered simulations are invaluable for testing different scenarios in war gaming exercises. These simulations incorporate diverse factors, including adversary capabilities, weather, and terrain, to provide a realistic projection of possible outcomes. Such tools allow leaders to plan and rehearse operations, identify weaknesses, and refine strategies. AI simulations support large-scale strategic planning and small-unit tactics, helping teams understand the consequences of their actions before taking them on the battlefield. War gaming simulations also train and prepare soldiers and officers for complex and high-stress situations through realistic, AI-generated scenarios.
Predictive Maintenance and Logistics Optimisation. AI enhances logistics by predicting when vehicles or other equipment may need maintenance, ensuring that military assets are operational when required. Predictive maintenance uses AI to analyse sensor data from equipment, forecasting failures before they happen and reducing operational downtime. For instance, AI predicts tank engine wear or helicopter rotor fatigue based on operational data, allowing maintenance teams to perform pre-emptive repairs, which can be critical in conflict scenarios. This application is more efficient and potentially life-saving, a testament to the significant role AI plays in military operations.
Autonomous and Semi-Autonomous Systems. Autonomous systems driven by AI are reshaping the modern battlefield. Drones, ground robots, and other unmanned systems operate with varying degrees of autonomy, performing ISR, transport, and combat tasks that traditionally require human soldiers. These systems extend operational capabilities, allowing military forces to engage in high-risk missions with minimal direct exposure to human personnel.
Unmanned Aerial and Ground Vehicles. AI enables drones and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) to operate autonomously in complex environments. Equipped with computer vision and machine learning algorithms, these systems navigate hostile terrain, conduct reconnaissance, and sometimes engage targets without direct human intervention. These AI-driven vehicles can also perform multi-mission roles, often shifting from reconnaissance to combat, depending on mission needs. This flexibility allows commanders to adapt real-time strategies, using the same resources for multiple purposes, improving efficiency, and extending operational reach.
Swarm Technology. Swarm technology, in which groups of autonomous systems work collaboratively, represents a new frontier in military robotics. AI allows swarms of drones to communicate, make collective decisions, and adapt to changing environments, enabling them to overwhelm defences, conduct coordinated surveillance, and jam enemy signals. In a combat situation, drone swarms could confuse adversary radar systems or execute diversionary tactics, creating openings for human-operated forces. This level of coordination and adaptability would be almost impossible without AI, which processes environmental data and adjusts the swarm’s behaviour in real-time.
Autonomous Combat Systems and the Kill Chain. One of the most controversial uses of AI in the military is automating the “kill chain”, the sequence of decisions from target identification to engagement. While current norms generally require human oversight, there is a growing interest in developing systems that can autonomously engage targets under specific circumstances. This application raises profound ethical and legal questions, as fully autonomous combat systems could operate beyond human control, making decisions with lethal consequences. Concerns over accountability, discrimination between combatants and civilians, and the potential for accidental escalation of conflicts are central to debates on the future of such technologies.
Cyber Defence and Information Warfare. Cyber warfare is a crucial area where AI aids in protecting military assets from digital threats. With its ability to rapidly detect anomalies, AI helps military cyber teams identify potential intrusions and respond to cyber attacks, significantly improving defence against increasingly sophisticated adversaries.
Threat Detection and Response. AI-powered systems monitor military networks, identifying unusual activities and rapidly flagging potential threats. These systems can differentiate between normal and malicious behaviour by analysing network patterns, user behaviour, and system performance. Machine learning models constantly adapt to new tactics and techniques cyber adversaries use, making them crucial in mitigating advanced persistent threats (APTs). AI also plays a role in “active defence,” where it identifies an intruder and takes countermeasures, potentially isolating affected systems or misleading the adversary. Such rapid response mechanisms enhance cyber security in ways that are challenging to achieve with human teams alone.
Information Warfare and Disinformation Detection. Information warfare has become a critical aspect of military operations, with adversaries frequently spreading misinformation to undermine morale and erode public trust. AI-driven tools can identify disinformation patterns by analysing social media and other communications platforms and flagging content designed to mislead or destabilise. AI’s ability to monitor, detect, and counteract information attacks helps protect soldiers and civilians from psychological manipulation while countering adversarial narratives that aim to weaken resolve or incite division.
Decision Support Systems (DSS). AI-based DSS provides commanders with actionable insights, predicting adversary behaviour and logistics needs and suggesting strategies to address dynamic battlefield conditions. AI’s benefits in military decision-making are substantial, enhancing speed, accuracy, and operational readiness. AI allows faster decision-making by processing information and identifying threats quicker than human operators. This speed is critical in time-sensitive combat situations where delayed responses can mean the difference between success and failure.
AI-enabled Systems.
Project Maven. Initiated by the U.S. Department of Defence in 2017, Project Maven aims to leverage AI to enhance the military’s ability to analyse drone footage and other visual data. By employing machine learning algorithms, Project Maven can automatically identify objects and activities in video feeds, significantly improving the speed and accuracy of intelligence analysis. According to the DoD, “Project Maven enables the Department of Defence to leverage AI and machine learning to make sense of vast amounts of data.” This project exemplifies the practical application of AI in military operations, transforming how intelligence is gathered and analysed.
Aegis Combat System. The Aegis Combat System is an advanced naval weapons system used by the U.S. Navy and allied forces. It employs AI to enhance threat detection, tracking, and engagement capabilities. Aegis integrates data from multiple sensors to provide real-time situational awareness, enabling rapid decision-making in combat scenarios.
Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS) are a controversial application of AI in military operations. These systems can select and engage targets without human intervention, raising ethical and legal concerns. Proponents argue that LAWS can reduce risks to human soldiers and increase operational efficiency. However, critics warn that lacking human oversight in lethal decision-making could lead to unintended consequences. The United Nations has called for discussions on regulating autonomous weapons, emphasising the need for human accountability in such systems.
Challenges and Concerns.
Implementing AI in the military involves several practical challenges, including ethical concerns, data quality, adversarial threats, and potential over-reliance on technology. While AI presents significant opportunities for military decision-making, several challenges and ethical considerations must be addressed.
Data Privacy and Security. Integrating AI into military operations raises concerns about data privacy and security. Collecting and analysing vast amounts of data, including personal information, can lead to potential misuse or unauthorised access. Ensuring data integrity and protecting sensitive information are critical challenges for military organisations. Cyber security measures must be robust to prevent adversaries from exploiting vulnerabilities in AI systems.
Data Quality and Integration. AI systems require high-quality, structured data to make accurate decisions. Military data sources are often fragmented, making integrating and ensuring data quality difficult. If AI systems operate on poor or incomplete data, they may produce incorrect or unreliable decisions, which could have dire consequences.
Reliability and Trust. AI systems are not infallible and can be prone to errors, particularly in complex and dynamic environments. Building trust in AI systems is crucial for military personnel to rely on them in high-stakes situations. Ensuring the reliability and accuracy of AI algorithms requires continuous testing and validation. Military organisations must establish protocols to assess the performance of AI systems before deployment.
Ethical Implications, Accountability and Responsibility. Despite its benefits, AI in military decision-making raises moral and legal concerns, particularly regarding autonomy, accountability, and adherence to international laws. The potential for machines to make life-and-death decisions without human intervention raises concerns about accountability and moral responsibility. Accountability can be ambiguous in AI-driven operations. If an autonomous weapon causes unintended harm, it is often unclear whether responsibility falls on the AI developer, the commanding officer, or the operator. Establishing clear accountability is essential to prevent the misuse of AI technologies and to ensure legal and ethical conduct in military operations. The moral implications of using AI in warfare have led to calls for regulatory frameworks to govern the development and deployment of autonomous systems. Experts argue that human oversight is essential to maintain ethical standards in military operations.
Compliance with International Law. Many AI applications in warfare, such as autonomous drones and weaponised robots, may challenge existing international treaties, including the Geneva Conventions, which govern the conduct of war and protect non-combatants. The potential for autonomous systems to make lethal decisions without human oversight raises questions about compliance with these international norms.
Adversarial AI and Deception. The potential for adversaries to exploit AI technologies poses a significant threat to military operations. Hostile entities can exploit cyber security vulnerabilities in AI systems to disrupt operations or manipulate data. For example, an adversary might feed false data into an AI system or use techniques to mislead autonomous systems, potentially leading to harmful or counterproductive decisions. Military organisations must develop counter-AI strategies and robust cyber security measures to safeguard their systems from adversarial threats. Collaboration with industry and academia can enhance resilience against emerging threats.
Dependence on Technology and Operational Vulnerability. Over-reliance on AI could create vulnerabilities, particularly if these systems are compromised or disabled in combat. If soldiers and commanders become too dependent on AI-based decision support, they may lack the necessary skills or resilience to operate without these tools in high-stress situations.
Future of AI in Military Decision-Making
As AI technology evolves, its role in military decision-making will expand. Several key areas warrant attention for future developments. The trajectory of AI in military decision-making suggests further integration, with increased autonomy in combat systems, more sophisticated predictive capabilities, and enhanced collaboration between human and AI decision-makers. However, the future of AI in military contexts will depend on addressing current ethical concerns, refining regulatory frameworks, and developing global agreements on autonomous weaponry.
Ongoing Research and Development. Continued research and development in AI technologies will be critical for addressing military applications’ challenges and ethical implications. Collaboration between military organisations, academia, and industry can drive innovation. Governments and defence agencies should invest in research programs exploring AI’s ethical, operational, and technological aspects in military contexts. This approach will ensure that AI systems are developed responsibly and effectively.
Human-AI Teaming Models and Collaboration. The future of military decision-making will likely involve greater collaboration between humans and AI systems. AI can augment human decision-making by providing data-driven insights, while human operators can offer contextual understanding and ethical considerations. This human-AI teaming approach leverages AI’s data processing and pattern recognition strengths while preserving human oversight and moral judgment. Developing effective collaboration models will be crucial for maximising AI’s benefits in military operations.
Advanced Training and Adaptation. As AI tools evolve, military training will adapt to integrate AI-based decision-making into officer training and war gaming exercises. Future military professionals must understand AI’s capabilities and limitations to ensure they can use these tools effectively and ethically. Enhanced training programs are essential to prepare military personnel to integrate AI technologies. Training should focus on developing skills in data analysis, AI ethics, and human-machine collaboration.
Regulatory Frameworks. The rapid advancement of AI technologies necessitates the establishment of regulatory frameworks to govern their use in military operations. Such frameworks should address ethical considerations, accountability, and oversight in autonomous systems. International cooperation is essential for developing norms and standards regarding the use of AI in warfare. Establishing treaties or agreements can help mitigate the risks of autonomous weapons and promote responsible AI use.
International Collaboration and AI Arms Control. International collaboration and regulation will be essential to manage the risks associated with military AI. Nations may need to negotiate treaties similar to those that govern nuclear and chemical weapons, establishing protocols and limits for AI-driven autonomous weapons.
Conclusion
Integrating AI into military decision-making reshapes how armed forces operate, strategise, and engage in combat. While AI offers significant benefits regarding efficiency, accuracy, and situational awareness, it also raises significant ethical and operational challenges. As military organisations continue to explore AI technologies, addressing these concerns will ensure responsible and effective use in the field. Balancing AI’s benefits with the principles of international law and ethical warfare will be essential to shaping a future where AI is a responsible and effective partner in military decision-making. The future of military decision-making will depend on finding the right balance between leveraging AI’s capabilities and maintaining human oversight and accountability. As AI technology advances, ongoing research, regulation, and collaboration will ensure that its deployment in military contexts aligns with humanity’s broader goals and values.
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Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.
References: –
U.S. Department of Defence. (2017). Project Maven. Retrieved from DoD Website.
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