Ukraine's trident laser weapon: A game-changer in aerial defence
Ukrainians are testing a new laser weapon. Trident, as it's called, is the counterpart of the British DragonFire system, writes the Ukrainian portal Defense Express.
The Ukrainian laser weapon Trident is currently being tested by the newly established unmanned systems forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. According to Defense Express, the commander of these forces, Vadim Sucharewski, emphasized that Ukraine is one of five countries possessing such technology. This weapon can shoot down aircraft at altitudes of over 1.6 kilometres.
The Ukrainian laser compared with competitive weapons
Comparing Trident to other systems, such as the American AN/SEQ-3 (LaWS) or the British DragonFire, it's noticeable that the Ukrainian weapon has similar parameters. The effective operating range is about 1.9 kilometres, which suggests a laser power level of at least 50 kW. This achievement is significant, considering that other systems with similar power operate at equivalent distances.
Vadim Sucharewski pointed out that Trident is in the development and enhancement phase. Currently, it is a prototype, but it already shows impressive capabilities. This weapon could be crucial in the future, especially in the context of defence against drones and other aerial threats.
Aiming to hit planes at altitudes of several kilometres
As reported, the Ukrainian Trident aims to hit aircraft flying at altitudes of up to 1.6 kilometres. Defense Express also notes that the Ukrainians ensured the laser could hit planes moving up to 200 kilometres per hour.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces are not disclosing details related to the weapon's production, but the laser is said to be "on the right track for scaling up and strengthening." Trident is still a prototype, but "if even a prototype demonstrates such parameters, then such development is truly more than interesting," reads Defense Express.
