Russia Tests New Laser Anti-Drone System
Reference News Network reported on July 19 According to TASS on July 16, a spokesperson for the Svarog production center in Russia stated that a new type of "Lightning" laser system capable of dealing with any type of drone has begun testing within Russia.
The announcement from the center stated: "The latest 'Lightning' laser system, which can counter any type of drone, is currently undergoing testing in Russia. This system is used to protect static targets such as military industrial enterprises, fuel and energy facilities, and critical transportation infrastructure like ports. 'Lightning' can also participate in the operations of mobile units."
Reportedly, the Svarog production center pointed out that when powered by batteries, the "Lightning" system can maintain uninterrupted laser emission for up to 15 minutes, with a combat duty cycle lasting up to 5 hours, and a target engagement range of up to 5 kilometers. The system is cost-effective, with the cost of a single launch (i.e., 10 seconds of uninterrupted laser emission) being only 205 rubles (11.6 rubles is approximately 1 yuan - editor's note).
The fixed version of the "Lightning" system is deployed in a 20-foot (approximately 6.10 meters) container, while the mobile version is mounted on a chassis with a load capacity of no less than 5 tons. The Svarog production center noted: "'Lightning' is equipped with a machine vision and guidance system based on artificial intelligence technology, using neural networks to analyze and process data for target identification, classification, and illumination guidance."
Reportedly, a spokesperson for the Svarog production center said: "During the testing period, 'Lightning' demonstrated a high effectiveness in destroying any type of drone, including first-person view drones and aircraft-shaped drones." (Translated by Liu Yang)
Russia is testing a new laser system named 'Lightning' designed to counter all types of drones. The system is currently undergoing trials within the country and is intended to protect static targets such as military facilities and critical infrastructure. It features AI technology for target recognition and can operate for up to 15 minutes on battery power, with a range of 5 kilometers.
- Russia is testing a new laser system called 'Lightning' to counter drones.
- The system can operate for 15 minutes continuously on battery power and has a range of 5 kilometers.
- It is designed to protect static targets such as military enterprises and critical infrastructure.
- The system uses AI technology for target recognition and guidance.
- The cost of operation is low, with a single 10-second laser firing costing approximately 205 rubles.