Drone Warfare Becomes Increasingly Global as US and Europe Race to Develop Lasers and Anti-Drone Systems

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA — The world is now entering a new chapter in modern warfare, where threats are no longer dominated by expensive fighter jets or missiles, but by small, low-cost drones capable of launching mass attacks. In this landscape, major countries such as the United States and European nations are racing to build new defence systems, ranging from high-energy lasers to jamming technology and drone interceptors.

In the United States, the acceleration of anti-drone technology development is evident through cooperation between the military and civilian authorities. The Pentagon, together with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has explored the use of high-energy laser systems to counter drone threats in domestic airspace.

This step was taken following a series of intensive trials and safety evaluations. The results indicate that the technology is deemed sufficiently safe for use under certain conditions.

“After a comprehensive, data-based safety risk assessment, we conclude that this system does not pose an increased risk to the public using air transportation,” stated the US aviation authorities, as reported by TechRadar on 15 April 2026.

However, behind this optimism, the development of this technology has not proceeded without challenges. Incidents of mistaken targets during laser system tests, including the shooting down of government drones, once led to airspace closures and raised serious concerns.

“These incidents highlight serious failures in the process that expose air transportation users to unacceptable safety risks,” said a US senator, as reported by Reuters on 12 March 2026.

Amid this controversy, the Pentagon continues to test laser technology as part of its strategy to address the growing drone threat. The trials are conducted to understand the system’s limits and ensure its safety in real-world use.

“Upcoming activities will specifically address FAA safety concerns while gathering data,” stated Pentagon officials, as reported by Reuters on 6 March 2026.

Not only in the United States, the anti-drone technology race is also occurring in Europe. The United Kingdom, for example, is accelerating the development of the “DragonFire” laser system, designed to destroy aerial targets at a much lower cost per shot compared to conventional missiles.