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What is Block-I laser and why is South Korea starting a mass production?
The Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA) has announced that South Korea is beginning mass manufacture of a low-cost laser weapon, Block-I, which has shown its capability by successfully downing tiny drones during tests.
The Block-I laser system. Photo Credit: Defense Acquisition Program Administration.
The Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA) has announced that South Korea is beginning mass manufacture of a low-cost laser weapon, Block-I, which has shown its capability by successfully downing tiny drones during tests.
But what is the Block-I laser?
South Korea designed and constructed the Block-I laser system, which is an advanced, low-cost laser weapon used for defence. It was created to meet the growing danger posed by small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and multicopters, particularly in battle zones where these drones have demonstrated the potential to disable or destroy expensive military hardware.
Design and specifications
The system measures 9 metres by 3 metres by 3 metres (29.5 feet by 9.8 feet by 9.8 feet) and is about the size of a shipping container, with a laser on top and a radar or tracking device on one side.
The Block-I emits laser rays that are practically impossible to detect before impact. Each shot costs about $1.50, making it a very cost-effective defensive strategy.
One of the weapon’s distinguishing properties is that it is both invisible and silent. It also does not require any additional ammunition and may be used with a constant source of electricity.
Development and testing
The Block-I has been in development for five years, with a total investment of about $63 million. The Korea Institute for Defence Analyses oversaw the development, with Hanwha Aerospace participating. Following a 100% success rate in live-fire tests, the system was declared combat-ready in April 2023.
DAPA said it envisions future versions that may target larger threats like aircraft and ballistic missiles, potentially altering defence plans.
The DAPA, however, clarified that the potential “game changer” can be operated “only when electricity is supplied”.
Current relevance
The Block-I system’s deployment is timely, as low-cost drones have proven useful in wars, crippling or destroying expensive military hardware. Traditional defensive systems are extremely expensive, costing tens of thousands of dollars each strike. A low-cost laser technology has the potential to dramatically change this dynamic.
Meanwhile, South Korea became the first government to openly disclose the deployment of a mass-produced laser weapon. Other countries, such as the United Kingdom and the United States, are looking into laser weapons but have yet to declare deployment dates.
