The South Korean military has deployed a laser air defense weapon in central Seoul to intercept small North Korean drones. This advanced system, which offers advantages such as speed and cost-effectiveness compared to conventional weapons, is expected to enhance South Korea’s air defense capabilities significantly.
On Thursday, the South Korean Army Capital Defense Command announced that the state-of-the-art laser air defense weapon, “Cheongwang” (Heaven’s Light), has been deployed in Seoul to counter the threat of small North Korean drones. Revealed publicly for the first time at the deployment site, Cheongwang is an advanced weapon capable of precision strikes against small enemy drones and multicopters using high-power laser beams. It is an innovative system that addresses the shortcomings of traditional physical interceptors or electronic countermeasures, enabling more refined defense. Amid escalating sophistication in North Korean provocations, this new defense system aims to protect Seoul’s citizens.
One of Cheongwang’s most notable features is its silent operation, which is as impressive as its cost-effectiveness. The weapon operates without ammunition, relying solely on electricity, making it almost undetectable by adversaries due to minimal noise. It offers unparalleled efficiency with an operating cost of approximately $1.50 per shot. Integrated with the air defense command and control alert system, it can receive real-time target information and automatically neutralize detected threats.
On Thursday, soldiers stationed at an air defense base in Seoul were seen busily checking the operational status of Cheongwang despite freezing temperatures. Their serious expressions reflected the urgency to maintain perfect air defense readiness, even in harsh winter conditions.
The soldiers operating Cheongwang were conducting repeated training scenarios to master non-firing procedures. When identifying enemy targets, they verified the information on the screen, moved to the weapon, and promptly neutralized hostile drones with the laser. While their movements were mechanical, their confidence was evident.
Sergeant First Class Kim Jung Hoon, deputy platoon leader of the Laser Air Defense Weapon Company, stated, “We are quickly mastering the new technology and working closely with our team to maintain the highest level of air defense readiness. We take pride in defending Seoul’s skies from the front lines.”
When asked if operating the system was challenging, Sergeant Kim smiled and explained, “The joystick controls make it easy to adapt. The automated system simplifies identifying and neutralizing threats, making it both straightforward and efficient.”
Cheongwang, which began production this year, has been deployed to the Capital Defense Command, the first military unit to operate it. The Command believes that the introduction of Cheongwang will significantly bolster its ability to respond effectively to North Korean drone provocations.
The acting commander of the Capital Defense Command and other unit officials visited the site to inspect the weapons’ operation and encourage the troops. Acting Commander Kim stated, “We will continue to deploy additional units to strengthen air defense capabilities and ensure Seoul’s citizens can feel safe. With this cutting-edge defense system, we will effectively deter enemy provocations in the skies over the capital region.”
Addressing the Cheongwang operators, he added, “Your role in defending the skies over Seoul is paramount. Master the new weapon system thoroughly and maintain readiness to respond immediately.”
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