Taiwan Developing Vehicle Mounted 50-Kilowatt Laser Weapon for Missile and Drone Defense

Defense News ,Taiwan :-  In a strategic move to bolster its defense capabilities, Taiwan's National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) is in the process of developing a powerful 50-kilowatt laser weapon designed to neutralize enemy missiles and drones. This cutting-edge technology is envisioned to be mounted on CM-32 Clouded Leopard armored vehicles, providing enhanced mobility and extended operational range.

An undisclosed defense official revealed that the laser weapon, with its robust power output, is poised to support a variety of combat applications. Notably, the NCSIST had previously unveiled a low-power prototype of the vehicle-mounted laser weapon last year. Anticipated to be fully powered, a prototype is expected to undergo trials and demonstrations by the end of this year.

Given the escalating tensions with China, the NCSIST aims for swift adoption of the laser weapon by the Taiwanese military. The institute has not worked in isolation, benefitting from technological assistance from undisclosed "international friends." While specific countries were not named, speculations point to the United States, renowned for its breakthroughs in laser development.

The completion of this high-powered laser weapon would not only showcase Taiwan's prowess in developing sophisticated defense systems but also highlight the collaborative efforts in international defense innovation.

Prior to the 50-kilowatt laser's development, the NCSIST delved into research on the battlefield applications of directed-energy weapons in tandem with air defense vehicles. The focus extended to exploring how such a weapon could complement conventional systems, especially when facing the challenge of expensive and easily overwhelmed air defense against enemy drone swarms.

After a comprehensive exploration of combat applications, the NCSIST identified the laser weapon's effectiveness against various threats, including China's Chengdu GJ-1 series of drones, rockets, missiles, and potentially countering Chinese balloons, as suggested by a defense analyst. The development of this advanced laser weapon is poised to redefine Taiwan's defense capabilities and contribute to regional stability.