Japan’s prototype laser directed energy weapon (DEW) progressing well, next stages emerge

Development of the new prototype laser directed energy weapon (DEW) being built by Japan’s military is progressing well, with the capability successfully destroying a small drone in February and March, a military official working on the project told DSEI’s editor in chief at DSEI Japan 2025.

Building on the recent counter-drone test, the military’s next step is to test the platform’s integration with other Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) systems, the official added.

This includes other counter-drone solutions, such as a high-power microwave system, they added.

The prototype DEW, known as the ‘Vehicle-Mounted High-Power Laser Demonstration System’, is intended to counter drones and is capable of continuously emitting a 10kW-power laser in a 360-degree radius, the technology’s brochure at the event detailed.

Japan’s Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency is developing the system, supported by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

The official also commented on the military’s plans to fit the DEW onto a smaller vehicle. This should be possible, they added, because the cooling system “is over spec” and can be reduced in size.

When asked about operational timelines for Japan’s laser DEW, the official explained that it was up to the JSDF to determine whether it enters service or stays in the research phase.

Along with the counter-drone DEW, JSDF is developing a larger, laser-based mobile DEW capable of neutralising missiles, the official revealed. The system will be similarly equipped onboard a military vehicle, although the size is yet to be determined.

Globally, the development of military DEWs to counter drones and missiles is accelerating, with the UK successfully test firing and destroying an aerial target with its prototype DragonFire laser DEW this year.

Nevertheless, these systems are still largely prototypes.

Source: DSEI Japan.