Putin Says New Laser Weapons Out of 'Science Fiction'

The Russian president specifically mentioned the Peresvet, a high-energy laser believed to be able to blind enemy electro-optical devices and down drones.

Russian President Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting of Russian military aviation in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting of Russian military aviation in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, Russia.
Alexei Druzhinin, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP

President Vladimir Putin says that new types of laser weapons developed in Russia will significantly enhance the nation's military capability.

Speaking during Friday's meeting with top officials, Putin specifically mentioned the Peresvet, the military's first laser weapon that entered service last fall.

Peresvet is a high-energy laser, whose specific data and purpose have remained secret. It's believed to be capable of blinding enemy electro-optical devices and downing drones.

Putin told officials that some other new laser weapons under development "until just recently only figured in science fiction." He added that such weapons "will determine the combat potential of the Russian army and navy for decades ahead."

More in Military