Video: Ukraine Fires Laser Weapons at Russian Military — See It Here

Ukraine has begun using laser weapons in combat, marking a significant advancement in its military capabilities. Vadym Sukharevsky, the Commander of Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces, confirmed in an interview with Radio Liberty that Ukraine now has laser technologies capable of striking targets at certain heights. This new capability represents a major step forward in the ongoing conflict with Russia.

In December, Sukharevsky announced the development of the Tryzub Trident laser weapon, which can shoot down aircraft at altitudes exceeding two kilometres. He suggested that Ukraine might now be the fifth country to deploy an operational military laser system. The weapon’s name, derived from Ukraine’s national Trident symbol, indicates that it is a domestically developed system rather than an imported one.

Last year, the former British Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps, revealed plans to provide Ukraine with DragonFire laser weapons. However, he noted that the weapon would only be ready for deployment by 2027. While the UK continues developing its laser technology, Ukraine has already integrated lasers into its defence strategy, further strengthening its ability to counter Russian aggression.

Moscow has condemned all Western military assistance to Ukraine, claiming it prolongs the war without changing the outcome. Russia, the United States, China, the UK, France, Germany, and Israel all have laser weapon programmes, with Russian President Vladimir Putin first discussing the Peresvet laser system in 2018. Designed to protect strategic assets, Peresvet is reportedly capable of disabling satellites and other high-altitude targets.

Ukraine’s rapid technological advancements in military lasers highlight its growing defence industry and resilience in the face of continued Russian aggression. The deployment of the Tryzub Trident system marks a turning point in Ukraine’s defensive strategy, giving its forces a new edge in modern warfare.