Ukraine's laser weapon nears reality, promising drone defense

Ukraine is on the cusp of deploying its own domestically developed laser weapon, the Tryzub (Trident), aimed at combating the increasing threat of drones in the ongoing conflict. Manufacturer Celebra Tech reports that the system is undergoing final testing before its battlefield debut.

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The laser system should be able to shoot down surveillance drones at a distance of 1,500 meters. Attack drones should be able to be engaged at 900 meters.

This initiative follows a British announcement in Spring 2024 regarding the provision of Dragonfire laser weapon prototypes to Ukraine. The Ukrainian-made Tryzub is designed for mounting on vehicles and buildings. According to the developer, the laser system can engage surveillance drones at distances up to 1,500 meters and attack drones at 900 meters.

The Tryzub aims to significantly reduce Ukraine's air defense costs. Traditionally, expensive missiles costing hundreds of thousands of dollars are used to counter cheaper drones. If effective, the laser weapon could lower the cost per engagement to a mere 25 to 50 kronor (approximately $0.25 to $0.50), covering only the electricity consumed.

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When the weapon is in place, only the electricity costs.

However, the system is not without its limitations. Defense writer Jared Keller notes that laser weapons require sustained targeting to be effective, which poses a challenge against projectiles traveling at high speeds. Furthermore, performance is significantly impacted by weather conditions; humidity, clouds, and rain can degrade its effectiveness. Sensitivity to heat has also been identified as a potential issue, with reports of problems encountered by Saudi Arabia using an Israeli system against Iranian drones.

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The laser must be directed at projectiles for a while for it to be effective, a weakness when the projectile to be shot down moves at several hundred kilometers per hour.