Rise of military lasers in 2025: How directed weapons reshaped defense plans

As of 2025, laser weapons have transitioned from experimental concepts to active frontline defense tools, with countries including the US, UK, Israel, Australia, and China deploying them primarily for air defense. This shift reflects significant technological advancements that have overcome earlier limitations related to power and cost. Laser systems now offer precise, cost-effective solutions for neutralizing drones, missiles, and other airborne threats, reshaping military strategies worldwide. Key developments highlighted in 2025 include the US Navy’s SONGBOW program, which aims to produce a 400-kilowatt shipboard laser capable of destroying drone swarms and cruise missiles at long range. Australia’s Apollo system provides an efficient, low-cost defense against drones with 360-degree coverage and no need for traditional ammunition. Israel’s Iron Beam, integrated with its Iron Dome defense network, offers rapid interception of rockets and mortars at a lower cost than missile interceptors. The UK’s DragonFire laser demonstrated high accuracy and low operational cost, capable of shooting down