Multiple defence news journals (see sources below) report that Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) displayed a prototype 2kW counter-UAS laser system at the show, capable of eliminating a drone target at 100m, at the event. A 100kW version was delivered to the Japanese Ministry of Defence earlier this year, say the news sources.
“The C-UAS system also includes a laser rangefinder and an infrared (IR) thermal imaging camera that can track UAVs up to a range of 300m,” according to a report from Jane’s.
“The laser system comprises a tracking imager, high-energy laser (HEL), gimbal and 2kW power source,” said Shepherd Media. “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.”
According to Israel’s DefensePost, KHI and Japan’s Ministry of Defence began working a laser-based anti-drone system in 2021 for operational deployment by 2023. “Apart from its use on land-based vehicles, the laser-based technology is also being considered for deployment on ships,” said the report.
For more information
https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/sensors-electronic-warfare/counter-uas-lasers-focus-japan
Japan to Test Vehicle-Mounted Laser System Capable of Taking Out Drones
https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/kawasaki-develops-c-uas-laser-system-for-japanese-military/
https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/dsei-japan-2023-kawasaki-heavy-industries-unveils-high-energy-laser-c-uas
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