Kawasaki develops C-UAS laser system for Japanese military
A high-energy laser has been added to this Kawasaki ATV to produce a mobile C-UAS system. (Photo: Koji Miyake)
Japan is developing an indigenous C-UAS system that uses a high-power laser.
Several companies exhibited counter-UAS (C-UAS) systems at DSEI Japan, but one attracting a lot of attention was a laser system from Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI).
KHI Aerospace developed it with its own funds, but at the request of the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA).
The laser system comprises a tracking imager, high-energy laser (HEL), gimbal and 2kW power source. It is fitted onto a Mule Pro-FX all-terrain vehicle from Kawasaki Motors for mobility. The Mule is already deployed by the Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade.
A larger-scale system is to be carried on a heavy-wheeled recovery vehicle chassis that is
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