Poland advances autonomous anti‑drone laser weapon system

Poland is developing the ASBL (Autonomous System of Laser Weapon) to protect military bases and critical infrastructure from unmanned aerial threats. Funded with 33 million zł through the government’s Perun programme, the system is being built by the Military University of Technology (WAT). It can detect, track and neutralise observation drones, FPV units and kamikaze drones at distances up to 1.5 km, destroying a target in 10–20 seconds. The laser operates thermally, burning components or igniting internal materials, and a single shot is estimated to cost about 100 zł. Weighing 300–400 kg, the mobile unit can be mounted on SUVs, ships or ground stations. Development will run for 36 months to produce a functional model, with full production expected between 2032 and 2035.