South Korea unveils cost-effective laser to counter North Korean drones
South Korea plans to deploy an innovative laser weapon capable of destroying drones sent by the Pyongyang regime. The system, named Block-I, is expected to cost only 2,000 South Korean won (about 1.50 CAD) per single "shot." It is projected to be ready later this year.
The South Korean Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) has announced that the new laser weapon is "capable of precise strikes on small unmanned aerial vehicles." The project, dubbed "Star Wars," is set to significantly enhance South Korea's capabilities to counter drone provocations from North Korea.
Lee Sang-Yoon, a DAPA representative, explained the weapon's mechanism. The focused beam melts the surface and ignites internal components, destroying the machine.
The new weapon responds to President Yoon Suk Yeol's 2022 call to action. This came after South Korean armed forces failed to shoot down several North Korean drones that crossed the border for the first time in years.
Increasing interest in laser weapons
Laser weapons are gaining international attention. According to the RAND think tank, many countries, including Israel, China, Russia, France, India, Turkey, Iran, South Korea, and Japan, invest in domestic development programs for this technology. Earlier this year, the United Kingdom announced that it tested a new high-power laser that could be used against Russian drones in Ukraine.
The British Ministry of Defence reported that the DragonFire weapon cost is usually less than 13 CAD. The United States has also indicated the potential use of laser systems to protect bases in the Middle East from drone and missile attacks, although it is unclear if they have been used yet.
New weapon may threaten balance
The introduction of laser weapons by South Korea could have far-reaching consequences for the balance of power on the Korean Peninsula. The low cost per use (about 1.50 CAD) compared to traditional anti-aircraft defence systems could significantly change the economics of drone-related conflicts. Additionally, the precision and speed of laser operations may give South Korea a considerable advantage in defending against potential future provocations from North Korea.
South Korea's development of this technology fits into the global trend of seeking new, cost-effective defence solutions. It may also inspire other countries to intensify their research into similar systems, potentially leading to a new arms race in laser technology.
