The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) has unveiled a prototype laser-based mobile counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) at an event commemorating the 70th anniversary of the JGSDF in Saitama Prefecture in November.
The C-UAS system is under development by the Ministry of Defense’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) with technical assistance from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI).
According to ATLA, the C-UAS system is equipped with a laser effector with an undisclosed power output, a UAS detection and tracking system, as well as an on-board power supply and cooling system. Local media reports have indicated that the laser can generate up to 10 kW of power.
The C-UAS system was also shown mounted on a MHI 8×8 heavy truck platform at the event.
MHI earlier revealed at the DSEI Japan 2023 exhibition that it is developing 10 and 20 kW-class laser C-UAS systems and has been demonstrating the technology to the Japan Self-Defense Force since 2020. At the exhibition, MHI had displayed a 10 kW C-UAS laser mounted on a 6×6 vehicle, and indicated that its system had the ability to neutralize hostile drones out to a maximum range of 1.2 km.
Meanwhile, Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) has also been involved in high-energy laser system development with ATLA over the past two decades, and has in recent years transitioned to 50-100 kW-class solid-state laser systems research aimed at addressing Counter-Rocket, Artillery, Mortar (C-RAM) requirements.
KHI also showcased a 2 kW-class laser C-UAS system based on a 4×4 all-terrain vehicle at DSEI Japan.
Elsewhere in East Asia, China and South Korea have also announced their own efforts to field laser-based C-UAS and missile defence systems.
by Jr Ng
