Laser technology emerges as cost-effective solution for drone defense

Military strategists are increasingly turning to high-energy laser technology to counter the rise of low-cost kamikaze drones. Current air defense relies on interceptor missiles that can cost hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars per shot, creating an unsustainable "cost asymmetry" when targeting drones that only cost a few thousand dollars.

Laser systems offer a radical economic alternative, with the cost per shot being only a few dollars—essentially the cost of the electricity required. Furthermore, as long as a power source is available, these systems provide nearly "infinite ammunition" and bypass traditional logistical supply chain issues.

Several nations are actively integrating these technologies. The U.S. Army has signed a $400 million contract for the mass production of the Locust laser system, which uses artificial intelligence to track and destroy drones. Additionally, Israel's Iron Beam and France's ELMA MAP are undergoing final testing for infrastructure defense, while Ukraine is developing domestic prototypes to combat drone swarms.