Iran claims it has produced and begun deploying a laser weapon capable of countering aerial threats, including enemy drones.
Called the “Sateb,” the laser cannon can reportedly shoot down aerial targets using powerful laser beams and is being utilized to protect “sensitive regions.”
The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) said that the weapon system is one of the country’s most important military achievements.
Two decades ago, an Iranian electronics company announced that it had acquired the necessary know-how to develop laser weapons. It even claimed that its laser weapons could neutralize radar-evading composite drones.
“High speed is one of the advantages of using such systems; as long as energy exists, shooting continues,” IRNA explained. “Due to its complication and high technology, just a few countries like Iran could enter the area of laser weapons.”
A Potential Addition to Arsenal
If the reports are to be believed, the weapon would be a major addition to the country’s military arsenal.
Last year, the Iranian Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) announced that it had acquired indigenous weapons and equipment such as precision-guided missiles and long-range combat and reconnaissance drones.
It also introduced upgraded anti-tank missile systems and combat helicopters equipped with Iranian-made Qaem-114 missiles.
The IRCG also unveiled two underground military bases housing high-powered missiles and unmanned aerial systems earlier this year.