Inherent pitfalls remain as Russia aims to seize potential of lasers
Russia plans to accelerate work in the next few years to develop new laser weapons for its armed forces, according to recent statements from MoD officials and comments to Shephard from local military analysts.
Work is already under way on projects including a laser complex that is intended to disable EO systems such as missile seeker heads.
Further details are scarce on this and other schemes, although the MoD has released images depicting the Peresvet combat laser. This is one of six new Russian strategic weapons unveiled by Russian President Vladimir Putin in March 2018.
Russian military analyst Alexander
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Defence Notes
-
US, Canada advance with over-the-horizon radar programmes to close NORAD surveillance gaps
Washington and Ottawa’s Arctic and homeland radar initiatives aim to strengthen early warning against cruise missiles, hypersonic weapons and long-range aerospace threats approaching North America.
-
The speed of relevance: how companies can navigate the new era of European defence procurement
European militaries face a rapidly evolving security landscape and defence production must accelerate to meet surging demand for platforms and equipment. Industry needs to adapt to ensure it gets its products into the hands of the end user, Evelyn Rafferty, Senior Director Aerospace and Defence - Europe at Plexus told Shephard’s Gerrard Cowan.
-
Delays, departures and drama cloud UK defence programmes ahead of absent DIP
The UK defence secretary’s departure suggests that the long-delayed Defence Investment Plan is unlikely to meet the funding demands of the armed forces, with consequences for procurement and the UK’s standing at a NATO summit weeks away.