Russia unveils new truck-mounted laser to counter fast-moving drones

A Russian defence company has showcased a new mobile laser system designed to shoot down drones. The device, mounted on a KamAZ truck, was presented as a high-speed weapon capable of disabling multiple aerial targets within seconds. However, questions have arisen about its originality and effectiveness.

Shvabe, a Russian state-owned firm, demonstrated the laser during a recent event. Officials described it as a 'combat laser' that could neutralise fast-moving drones in under a minute. The system includes an optical-electronic tracking module and runs on onboard batteries, allowing for independent operation.

Photos of the unit reveal a radar setup resembling the small Repeynik system. Analysts suggest this could enable 360-degree coverage if multiple radars are installed. Yet the radar's size hints at a shorter effective range compared to larger defence systems.

The design bears a striking similarity to Chinese-exported laser anti-drone systems, which have faced criticism for overheating and inconsistent performance. Russia has previously been accused of rebranding foreign-made laser technology as domestically produced equipment.

The demonstration itself lacked clarity, with key details—including the system's official name—kept hidden. This follows Russia's October reveal of the Ignis laser, a separate unmanned ground vehicle intended for tactical demining. No information has surfaced linking Ignis to a specific manufacturer.

The new laser system joins a growing list of Russian-directed energy weapons, though its origins and capabilities remain under scrutiny. If deployed, its effectiveness will depend on overcoming the technical limitations seen in similar foreign designs. For now, the system's operational range and reliability stay unproven.