The article is a comprehensive analysis of India’s burgeoning interest in Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) and Hypersonic Weapons, as recently highlighted by Air Chief Marshal. It explores the basic definitions, key features, advantages and disadvantages linked to these weapons, and their significance for India. Furthermore, it takes into consideration related projects and developments initiated by India.
Understanding Directed Energy and Hypersonic Weapons
Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs), in simple terms, are powerful weapons that damage or destroy their targets utilizing concentrated energy, delivered through lasers, microwaves, or particle beams. Some prevalent examples include microwave weapons, laser weapons, and drone defense systems. On the other hand, hypersonic weapons denote those capable of striking targets at speeds five to ten times the speed of sound (Mach 5 to Mach 10).
The Upside of DEWs vs. Conventional Ammunitions
The advantages of DEWs, particularly lasers, are noteworthy compared to conventional ammunitions. These include high precision, low cost per shot, logistical benefits, and low detectability. DEWs provide lethal force at an astonishing speed of light, approximately 300,000 kilometers per second. The energy beams they release are not constrained by gravity or atmospheric drag, and can be tailored to specific targets by modifying the type and intensity of energy delivered.
Relevant Drawbacks and Limitations
However, DEWs also have some inherent disadvantages. Foremost is their limited range where effectiveness quickly drops as the distance between the target and weapon increases. High development and manufacturing costs of DEWs and hypersonic weapons may outweigh their effectiveness, making them a costly alternative. They can also be countered with reflective materials and other countermeasures, thus reducing their potency. Furthermore, their development often triggers an arms race with other nations, escalating tensions and instability.
The Import of DEWs and Hypersonic Weapons for India
These advanced technologies, if integrated into India’s aerospace industry, hold potential to revolutionize warfare. They will enable India to produce avant-garde platforms, weapons, sensors, and networks critical for future wars. DEWs and Hypersonic Weapons could act as deterrents against hostile nations such as China and Pakistan by bolstering India’s defense capabilities.
Global Scenario of DEWs
Other countries with significant developments in DEWs include Russia, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Israel, and China. In a controversial move, the US accused Cuba of carrying out sonic attacks, known as the Havana Syndrome.
India’s Projects on DEWs and Hypersonic Technology
India has been showing promising progress in the field of DEWs and hypersonic technology. For instance, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully tested a 1KW laser weapon which could hit a target 250m away. DRDO is also working on a project named Directionally Unrestricted Ray-Gun Array (DURGA) II, a 100-kilowatt lightweight DEW. In addition to these advancements, both DRDO and ISRO have made significant strides in hypersonic technology development. For instance, in 2021, DRDO flight-tested the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV) that can travel at six times the speed of sound.
The Path Ahead: Self-Reliance in Defense
India’s increasing focus on ‘Atmanirbharta’ or self-reliance in defense emphasizes the need for home-grown designs and development capabilities. The country needs to invest more in defense research and development to enhance its defense capabilities.
