Since the 70s, numerous weapon systems have been developed based on laser guidance, offering high precision, particularly against moving targets. If in the West today there are numerous programs based on the thermal effect of a laser beam on a target, with the aim of destroying it, other programs seek to use this ray to jam detectors and auto -directors of these weapons.
This is particularly the case for a program by the Russian company JSC NPO Almaz, for the development of an airborne counter-detection laser, and revealed in the company's annual report. Unlike weapon systems using lasers to destroy a target, counter-detection systems require much lower electrical power, allowing rapid deployment of the equipment. In the case of this system, it would be transported and powered by a transport aircraft, or even a combat aircraft, without the need for extensive modification to provide the necessary electrical power.
However, the use of this technology will most likely remain anecdotal, or in any case limited. Indeed, laser counter-detection is only of interest against an adversary using laser guidance systems, therefore during a medium or high intensity engagement. In this case, it is likely that this same adversary would have anti-aircraft weapons, especially since the effective range of low-power lasers is limited by weather conditions, particularly cloudiness. In fact, this approach will certainly be limited to peacetime nuisance, or will be used very sparingly on the battlefield.
The fact remains that this represents, once again, a demonstration of the pragmatism of Russian defense programs, seeking to gain even a limited advantage, through investments that are also limited.
