Ukraine's secret laser weapon: A new frontier in defence
The commander of the Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces, Col. Vadym Sucharewski, confirmed that a laser weapon named Tryzub (Eng. "Trident") was used against Russian targets. This information was disclosed in an interview with Radio Free Europe.
Ukraine has confirmed using secret laser weaponry against Russian targets. Colonel Vadym Sucharewski, who leads the Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces, noted back in December 2024 that Ukraine is one of the few countries in the world capable of designing and deploying weaponry based on laser technology. Until now, besides testing, this weaponry had only been used operationally by the USA in an undisclosed location abroad, referring to a weapon named P-HEL. Apart from Ukraine, only four countries in the world are believed to possess such weapons, most of which are still in the testing phase.
Ukraine with laser weaponry
The Ukrainian commander explained that the laser system named Tryzub is capable of shooting down aerial vehicles at altitudes exceeding 2,000 metres. "Laser technology is already striking specific objects at specific altitudes," Sucharewski said when asked about the Ukrainian laser system and its deployment. When further questioned about the progress of these advanced technologies, he stated that Ukrainian research and military development encompass "many areas."
The new system was developed in response to the increased use of drones by the Russians and other aerial threats, particularly Shahed-type assault machines. According to the Ukrainian commander, the Tryzub laser is part of Ukraine's broader strategy, aiming to neutralize Russian aerial potential and counter threats from combat and reconnaissance drones.
Laser key in combatting drone attacks
Previously, Ukrainian forces attacked a reinforced Russian bunker in the occupied Kherson region using a U.S.-supplied M712 Copperhead laser-guided artillery shell.
In the context of the conflict marked by a growing number of drone attacks, laser weaponry plays a key role in Ukraine's strategy. These technologies are not only an effective tool in repelling modern threats but are also a symbolic achievement of the national defence industry, which is evolving in response to new wartime challenges. The name of the new system is also symbolic, as it references the coat of arms of Ukraine.
