A Russian company, LazerBuzz, has decided against developing a beam weapon (directed energy weapon) intended to counter unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). According to the company`s director, Ivan Khovansky, the primary reason for this decision was the weapon`s inefficiency stemming from human operational factors.
Khovansky explained that while countering FPV (First Person View) drones remains a top priority, automation is crucial for such systems. He recalled that initial testing explored the concept of equipping an operator with a powerful directed energy source, essentially a beam weapon, for manual or tripod-mounted engagement of drones.
However, practical trials revealed the concept`s shortcomings. Although operators performed competently during initial tests, performance significantly deteriorated during public demonstrations due to increased stress and nervousness, negatively impacting accuracy and effectiveness.
Khovansky emphasized that consistent results were overly dependent on human skill and chance. He stated that such variability is unacceptable for a reliable UAV countermeasure system.
The expert concluded that current laser systems, capable of targeting very small objects, are well-suited for repelling drone attacks.
In related news, it was previously reported that Russia`s 7.62mm Dragunov sniper rifle (SVD) has been effectively used to neutralize heavy Ukrainian Armed Forces drones. Russian military personnel are regularly intercepting “Baba Yaga” enemy drones using the SVD.
Rupert Blackwood 
Barnaby Whitfield