Image source: topwar.ru
South Korea is deploying Block-I anti-aircraft systems (also known as Skylight or Cheongwang), which are a stationary 20 kW fiber-optic laser system capable of neutralizing drones.
The first units receiving it are units stationed on the front line and in the capital Seoul. As indicated in the Western press, while countries such as Britain with its Dragonfire system and Israel with Iron Beam are still developing similar complexes, South Korea has already launched them into mass production and is actively supplying troops.
The cost of a shot from Block-I is estimated at $1.45. The laser weapon, created by Hanwha Aerospace, has a power of 20 kW and is designed to neutralize small UAVs at a distance of 2-3 km. Production began in July 2024 under a $72.5 million contract signed in June.
Image source: topwar.ru
According to the Ministry of Defense of the country, during tests in April 2023, the system showed 100 percent effectiveness against the intended targets. Despite the fact that Block-I is effective against threats at short distances, it is not designed to counter ICBMs or massive drone attacks.
Future versions of the system will have advanced features. The Block-II variant will be mobile, based on the K239 MLRS chassis. The 100 kW Block-III modification is designed to intercept larger targets such as ballistic missiles and aircraft.
