Hanwha Laser Weapons Down Three Drones in Army Demo

CounterUASWorld Summary

Two laser weapons developed by Hanwha Systems successfully downed all three target drones during a South Korean Army demonstration on October 14. The event featured the stationary Cheongwang Laser Air Defense Weapon Block-I and a 30-kilowatt-class vehicle-mounted laser as part of a layered counter-UAS exercise combining directed energy, electronic jamming and conventional weapons. First deployed in December 2024, Cheongwang reportedly costs around $1.50 per shot and can continue firing as long as power is available. Hanwha is pursuing export opportunities in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, while also developing a 50 kW laser-equipped armored vehicle for international customers, with production targeted to begin by the end of 2027.