Japan developing laser to knock down UAVs
As Japan’s military looks to gain experience with UAVs, it is also developing lasers to shoot them down too.
The Japanese MoD is developing a vehicle-mounted high-energy laser weapon to intercept small UAVs, it has emerged. The Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA) aims to have the system ready for use by 2025.
ATLA requires approximately JPY3.3 billion ($31.7 million) for technical research under the FY2021 budget request.
The MoD recognises that current Japanese weapon systems cannot intercept coordinated attacks by multiple UAVs. Therefore, ATLA invited proposals from companies for research into vehicle-mounted high-energy lasers on 30 October.
The laser system should be mounted on a small truck like the 4x4 High Mobility Vehicle. The package will consist of
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 Land Warfare
-
![Eurosatory 2026: LVRM reveals latest armoured vehicles to support Italian Army modernisation]()
Eurosatory 2026: LVRM reveals latest armoured vehicles to support Italian Army modernisation
The new platforms being shown by Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles offer reduced crew needs and upgraded firepower options to meet Italy's future heavy land forces requirements.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: KNDS Mobility outlines Celeris progress and work with Milrem Robotics]()
Eurosatory 2026: KNDS Mobility outlines Celeris progress and work with Milrem Robotics
KNDS Mobility’s Celeris system is the base for French Army Serval 4x4 lightweight multi-role armoured vehicle but has also been provided as a base for cooperation with other companies.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Rheinmetall launches new Caracal 6x6 variant]()
Eurosatory 2026: Rheinmetall launches new Caracal 6x6 variant
The new Caracal 6x6 is heavier and designed to deliver greater versatility, building on the 4x4 platform that is already established and on order in Europe.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: European rearmament fuels renewed demand for main battle tanks]()
Eurosatory 2026: European rearmament fuels renewed demand for main battle tanks
Main battle tanks are regaining prominence across Europe, driving billions of dollars in procurement, industrial investment and multinational development programmes.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Multi-domain operations drive demand for resilient battlefield networks]()
Eurosatory 2026: Multi-domain operations drive demand for resilient battlefield networks
Eurosatory 2026 highlights growing investment in resilient communications, navigation, cyber defence and data integration as armed forces seek to operate effectively across multiple domains.
