The Instruments Research and Development Establishment (IRDE), Dehradun, is seeking development partners for an advanced airborne Laser Directed Energy Weapon (Laser-DEW) gimballed pod program aimed at engaging airborne targets with high precision.

The proposed system is expected to combine a two-axis gimballed platform with electro-optical (EO) sensors, enabling accurate target detection, tracking and engagement in dynamic operational environments.

As part of the integrated solution, the pod will incorporate a laser rangefinder and laser illuminator to support target acquisition, identification and precise ranging functions during missions.

The design also includes sophisticated beam director optics and a beam transport system, both of which are critical for accurately transmitting and focusing laser energy onto designated airborne targets.

By bringing all subsystems into a single airborne pod, the project seeks to provide stable, precise and responsive laser-targeting capability from an aerial platform.

The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to advance directed-energy technologies, which are increasingly being explored for their potential to deliver rapid engagement, precision effects and reduced dependence on conventional interceptors.

Development partners selected for the programme will be expected to contribute expertise across gimbal systems, electro-optical technologies, laser integration and beam-control architectures to support the creation of the complete airborne Laser-DEW pod solution.