South Korea deploys Skylight laser weapon to protect Seoul capital from North Korean drones.

As reported by Mason on December 8, 2024, South Korea has initiated the deployment of the Laser-Based Anti-Aircraft Weapon Block-I, a stationary 20kW-class fiber laser system capable of neutralizing drones within a range of 2–3 kilometers, to frontline units and selected urban locations, including Seoul. Globally, laser systems like the British Dragonfire and Israeli Iron Beam remain under development, but South Korea is the first to announce large-scale production and deployment of such a system to complement its existing air defense layers against North Korean drones. However, deployment to the broader metropolitan area may face delays.
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The Laser-Based Anti-Aircraft Weapon Block-I, also known as Skylight or Cheongwang, is a stationary 20kW-class fiber laser weapon designed to neutralize small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at an estimated firing cost of $1.45 per shot. (Picture source: DAPA)

Developed since 2019 by Hanwha Aerospace in collaboration with the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), the Laser-Based Anti-Aircraft Weapon Block-I, also known as Skylight or Cheongwang (天光), is a stationary 20kW-class fiber laser weapon designed to neutralize small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and multicopters within a range of 2–3 kilometers at an estimated firing cost of KRW 2,000 ($1.45) per shot. Production began in July 2024 under a KRW 100 billion ($72.5 million) contract signed in June, supervised by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA). During live-fire tests in April 2023, the system achieved a 100% success rate against its intended targets. While effective against short-range threats such as drones and multicopters, Skylight is not designed to counter intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) or high-output swarm drone attacks.

Future iterations of the Skylight system aim to expand its capabilities. The Block-II variant will be mobile, based on the K239 Multiple Rocket Launcher System chassis, offering increased range and power. The Block-III is envisioned to intercept larger threats, such as ballistic missiles and aircraft, through naval and aerial configurations with outputs exceeding 100kW. These upgrades are expected to strengthen South Korea’s layered air defense system.

In addition to Skylight, South Korea is deploying the Intelligent 40mm Automated Air Defense System. Also developed under DAPA’s rapid development program, this system features dual-barreled 40mm cannons that may use munitions compatible with the K21 Infantry Fighting Vehicle. It is based on the export version of the towed 40mm CIWS gun developed for India. While the turret’s specific configuration—such as the use of the K40 or 40CTC—has not been confirmed, mobile versions are under development using the K239 chassis. This system targets low-altitude threats and complements Skylight within South Korea's six-layered air defense architecture. Together, they form the lower tiers alongside LAMD-I and LAMD-II systems, while M-SAM and L-SAM systems address medium- and high-altitude threats. This multi-tiered structure counters a wide range of aerial challenges.

The Skylight operates silently and without visible light, reducing the risk of collateral damage such as falling debris. It integrates with radar systems to enhance targeting precision. However, its performance can be reduced in adverse weather, and interception times for swarm drone attacks are longer. Complementary systems, such as High-Pulse Microwave (HPM) weapons, are being explored to address these limitations.

Laser weapon systems, also known as directed-energy weapons, are emerging as a key area of defense innovation, as they provide key advantages for air defense, including precision targeting, rapid response capabilities, and cost-efficiency. Their ability to engage threats at the speed of light allows for immediate neutralization of drones, missiles, and artillery shells, enhancing operational effectiveness without reliance on conventional munitions. Precision targeting reduces the risk of collateral damage compared to traditional systems. Laser systems rely on power sources rather than ammunition, enabling sustained use as long as energy is available, which reduces logistical burdens and operational costs. These features make laser technology a practical option for modern military applications. to counter various threats.

For instance, the United States has focused on systems like Lockheed Martin’s 500kW-class laser weapon, representing a significant power increase, and Raytheon’s High-Energy Laser Weapon Systems, designed to intercept rockets, artillery, mortars, and drones. Israel’s Iron Beam is designed to counter short-range rockets, artillery, and mortars. In the United Kingdom, the DragonFire system, introduced in 2017, underwent high-power trials in 2022 and is expected to be integrated aboard Royal Navy ships by 2027.

China has demonstrated systems such as the Silent Hunter, a vehicle-mounted laser for low-altitude targets, and the LW-30, showcased as a short-range anti-UAV system. Russia’s laser arsenal includes the Peresvet, operational since 2018, and the newer Zadira, reportedly used for battlefield applications. South Korea’s Block-I focuses on drone neutralization at low operational costs. France’s HELMA-P has been tested for anti-drone operations aboard naval platforms, while Germany is advancing naval laser weapons for UAV and missile defense. Additional efforts include India’s exploration of laser systems for border defense, Turkey’s ARMOL for anti-drone operations, and Japan’s development of laser air defense technologies. Global trends indicate increasing interest in these innovations despite challenges such as power supply, cooling, and weather impacts.

South Korea has initiated the deployment of laser weapons to frontline units and urban areas, including Seoul, primarily to counter the escalating threat of North Korean drones. In December 2022, five North Korean drones entered South Korean airspace, with one reaching Seoul, highlighting gaps in air defense. In response, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) initiated deployment of the "Block-I" laser system, developed by Hanwha Aerospace. This system can disable drones by targeting their engines or electronics within 10–20 seconds, with an operational cost of approximately 2,000 won ($1.45) per shot. The deployment aims to enhance South Korea's defense capabilities, particularly in densely populated areas like Seoul, against potential provocations from the North.