Russia Tests Laser Anti-Drone Defense System

JAKARTA - Russia conducted a large-scale test of a new laser-based system to defend against drones.

The government described the new technology as "promising" and said the technology had been tested against various types of unmanned aircraft in various weather conditions.

The anti-drone laser will be part of a "universal air defense system" that President Vladimir Putin said this week needed to be built by Russia.

"Trial results will be used to perfect existing models and create systems capable of providing reliable protection against modern airstrikes. By conducting trials, we can turn to serial production and scale increases," the Russian government said in a statement.

The video inclusion shows charred debris from a destroyed drone.

Russia and Ukraine have deployed large-scale drones in war, using them to find and strike targets not only on the battlefield but also far outside the front lines.

Ukrainian drones often attack locations deep inside Russia such as oil depots, oil refineries, and airfields, highlighting the need for Moscow to increase its defenses.

Earlier this month, Ukrainian drones smuggled near the air base by truck caused serious damage to Russia's long-range bomber fleet.