Which DRDO lab conducted a successful laser weapon test in April 2025?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) CHESS (Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences)

Explanation:

• In April 2025, the Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), a laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), successfully conducted a test of a high-powered laser weapon system.
• The system, known as the Mk-II(A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW), was tested at the National Open Air Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.
• During the demonstration, the Mk-II(A) DEW engaged and neutralized fixed-wing drones and drone swarms, causing structural damage and disabling surveillance sensors.
• This achievement positions India among a select group of nations possessing high-power laser DEW capabilities, including the United States, Russia, and China.

Information Booster:

• The Mk-II(A) DEW system operates by detecting targets using radar or its inbuilt Electro-Optical (EO) system and engaging them at the speed of light.
• The laser beam can cause structural failures by cutting through the target or deliver more impactful results by targeting warheads.
• Developed by CHESS in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Indian industries, the system is designed to counter aerial threats such as drones and missiles.
• The successful trial marks a significant advancement in India's directed energy weapon capabilities, aligning with the country's focus on developing indigenous defense technologies.

Additional Knowledge:

(a) ADE (Aeronautical Development Establishment)

• ADE is a DRDO laboratory specializing in aeronautical systems and has been involved in the development of various aircraft and related technologies.
• While ADE has contributed to defense technologies, it was not the laboratory responsible for the laser weapon test conducted in April 2025.

(b) CAIR (Centre for Artificial Intelligence & Robotics)

• CAIR focuses on research in artificial intelligence, robotics, and communication systems.
• Although CAIR plays a crucial role in defense R&D, it was not involved in the laser weapon test conducted by DRDO in April 2025.

(d) NPOL (Naval Physical & Oceanographic Laboratory)

• NPOL specializes in sonar systems and underwater acoustics, primarily supporting naval defense applications.
• NPOL was not the laboratory responsible for the laser weapon test conducted by DRDO in April 2025.