India's navy is exploring new ways to equip future warships with laser and microwave weapons capable of neutralizing swarms of cheap drones, according to Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar. Drawing lessons from conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, the navy views directed-energy weapons as a cost-effective alternative to expensive missiles. An Iranian Shahed drone costs $35,000–$50,000, while a missile to shoot it down costs $2 million–$3 million. 'It is definitely not worth it,' Kochhar said.
The power demands are driving India toward electric propulsion for future ships, and the navy has signed agreements and obtained government approvals. It is also exploring navigation technologies like quantum-based positioning and celestial navigation for GPS-denied environments. Separately, the navy has sought bids for four landing platform docks and next-generation frigates.
Source: Bloomberg Markets · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing