"Star Wars in the 21st century: South Korea to deploy laser weapons to combat North Korean drones

South Korea has announced that this year it will deploy laser weapons to destroy North Korean drones that invade its airspace.

Here's What We Know

Korea's Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA) said its so-called Star Wars directed energy system emits powerful beams for up to 20 seconds. The laser weapon can neutralise enemy drones by burning their engines or other electronic parts.

In addition, the system is quiet and invisible and relatively cheap to operate, costing only 2,000 Korean won ($1.45) per shot. DAPA said that Seoul will be the first country in the world to officially use laser weapons.

"Our military's ability to respond to North Korea's drone provocation will be further enhanced," the statement added.

It is worth noting that in December, five North Korean drones flew into South Korea, prompting Seoul to deploy fighter jets and attack helicopters to try to shoot them down. The five-hour chase was unsuccessful, raising doubts about the capability and readiness of the country's air defence system.

Source: Reuters