Japan Enhances Anti-Drone Capability with Mobile Laser Weapon at DSEI 2025.

The development of Japan's directed energy weapon (DEW) system is advancing steadily, reflecting Tokyo's commitment to next-generation defense technologies. Presented at DSEI Japan 2025, the prototype, known as the "Vehicle-Mounted High-Power Laser Demonstration System," represents a step forward in the country’s efforts to address emerging aerial threats, particularly drones.
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Japan showcased its prototype laser-directed energy weapon, the "Vehicle-Mounted High-Power Laser Demonstration System," at DSEI Japan 2025 (Picture source: DSEI JAPAN)

This technological demonstrator, overseen by the Acquisition Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA) and supported by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, has recently reached a notable milestone. A military official involved in the program confirmed that the system successfully neutralized a small drone during tests conducted in February and March, demonstrating its effectiveness in counter-UAV scenarios. The system operates with a 10 kW laser capable of continuous 360-degree emission, as detailed in the technical brochure displayed at the event.

Following these results, the next phase of the program focuses on integrating the laser system with other existing Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) platforms. This includes additional counter-drone solutions such as a high-power microwave system designed to disable the electronic circuits of hostile drones. Directed energy weapons, by virtue of their silent and instantaneous operation, offer targeted neutralization without the use of kinetic munitions, thereby reducing collateral damage and long-term engagement costs.

Globally, the DEW arsenal is evolving rapidly, with several countries pursuing their own developments. The United Kingdom is testing the DragonFire system, a vehicle-mounted laser platform capable of accurately targeting and neutralizing short-range aerial threats. The United States maintains a broad portfolio, including the High Energy Laser Tactical Vehicle Demonstrator (HEL TVD) and the Laser Weapon System (LaWS), which is deployed on naval vessels. Israel is working on ground-based lasers to complement its Iron Dome with a program known as Iron Beam. China and Russia are also investing heavily in similar concepts.

The growing interest in these technologies is driven by the rapid evolution of aerial threats. Small commercial drones, modified for military use, have become common asymmetric tools in modern conflicts. Their low cost, agility, and ability to evade conventional defenses make them effective for reconnaissance and harassment. Additionally, loitering munitions, often referred to as kamikaze drones, further complicate the threat environment, underscoring the need for rapid, cost-effective countermeasures.

DEW systems address this requirement by offering an immediate response, with virtually unlimited ammunition capacity provided sufficient power supply, and the ability to precisely target fast-moving objects without physical interception. This makes technology especially suitable for urban or sensitive environments where the use of missiles or artillery poses risks to civilians and infrastructure.

In parallel with the drone-focused prototype, the JSDF is developing a more powerful vehicle-mounted DEW designed to counter missiles. The integration of such systems into Japan’s defense structure indicates a strategic move toward diversified and adaptive response capabilities.

Japan’s work on directed energy weapons signals a shift toward more precise and sustainable defense solutions. As the global defense landscape adapts to the proliferation of drones and other low-cost aerial threats, DEWs are emerging as a relevant and potentially transformative technology. Although still in the experimental phase, their eventual deployment could redefine standards for aerial protection in the coming decades.