Japan is preparing for sea trials of an advanced 100-kilowatt laser system designed as a low-cost weapon to destroy drones and light aerial targets.
The system is installed on the test vessel JS Asuka and is made up of a combination of 10 10 kW fiber lasers.
This weapon has the ability to pass through metal and quickly destroy drones, and its first sea trials will begin on February 27, 2026.
The development program for this laser began in 2018, and its operational prototype was delivered in February 2023 by Kawasaki Heavy Industries.
The most prominent advantage of this weapon is the lack of ammunition limitations and the very low cost per shot compared to traditional missile systems, although a stable power supply and cooling system are its main challenges.
With this project, Japan joins the ranks of leading countries in the development of directed energy weapons and is trying to strengthen its defense against drone threats.
