Hanwha Systems has successfully demonstrated the interception capabilities of its laser defense system, Cheongkwang, by shooting down three drones during the Army TIGER+ integrated combat training exercise held on October 14, organized by the Army Headquarters.
In front of an observing delegation, all three drones were intercepted using the Cheongkwang laser weapon and a high-energy laser cannon mounted on a combat vehicle.
Laser weapons are emerging as next-generation air defense systems capable of countering small drones and unmanned aerial vehicles, which have become increasingly prevalent on the battlefield. Earlier this year, the use of expensive intercept missiles to shoot down low-cost drones during the Russia-Ukraine conflict highlighted the cost issues associated with air defense. Laser weapons are considered advantageous for engaging multiple drones, as they do not require separate ammunition and have lower firing costs.
Cheongkwang is a laser defense system developed by the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), with Hanwha Systems participating as a prototype manufacturer. The cost per shot is approximately 2,000 won, and it can operate continuously for 24 hours with just a power supply, without the need for additional ammunition.
The high-energy laser cannon mounted on a combat vehicle, demonstrated alongside Cheongkwang, is a 30kW mobile weapon system. It features miniaturized and lightweight components for vehicle mounting and employs a phase-change cooling technology to manage heat generated during high-output operations.
Cheongkwang previously intercepted four drones and two unmanned aerial vehicles in a demonstration at the 2026 Defense Drone Technology Exhibition held at the Army Promotion Training Center in September. A 50kW laser armored vehicle aimed at overseas exports was also showcased, with development expected to be completed by 2027.
Shin Joo-hoon, head of Hanwha Systems' laser business center, stated, "Laser weapons are a key game changer that will transform the future of air defense. We will actively target the global market with Cheongkwang's proven operational performance and the excellent mobility and high-output interception capabilities of the 50kW laser armored vehicle."
Meanwhile, Cheongkwang was first deployed in a real combat environment in December 2024 at the Ministry of National Defense compound in Yongsan, Seoul.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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