South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced on Thursday its plans to become the first nation to deploy anti-drone laser weapons.
The laser system, referred to as the “StarWars” project, is designed to address North Korean drone incursions into South Korean airspace.
Developed by Hanwha Aerospace, a subsidiary of Hanwha Group, the strategy is estimated to cost approximately $1.45 (2,000 won) per shot. Hanwha Aerospace, headquartered in Changwon, South Korea, has been operational since 1977, originally established as Samsung Precision.
“Our country is becoming the first in the world to deploy and operate laser weapons, and our military’s response capabilities to North Korea’s drone provocations will be further strengthened,” stated DAPA, describing the weapons as a potential game changer in future conflicts.
