A laser called 'Trident' has been developed in Ukraine to shoot down 'Shahed' drones
This is reported by Militariy.
The Celebra Tech system is currently undergoing final testing ahead of its official launch. However, the development is already demonstrating impressive results: the system easily deals with reconnaissance drones at ranges of up to 1,500 metres. For FPV drones, which are popular on the front line, the effective engagement range is around 800–900 metres.
However, this is not the limit. The company has announced ambitious goals for large targets.
“Currently, ‘Trizub’ is practically capable of hitting targets at a distance of 5 km – this will allow it to effectively shoot down Shahed-type UAVs,” noted Celebra Tech.
The trailer-mounted platform makes the system extremely manoeuvrable. It can be quickly redeployed to complex locations, making it an ideal solution for covering military positions.
The system is also suitable for protecting strategic facilities. The complex can form part of a private air defence network. In addition to combat operations, the laser is planned to be used for remote demining of areas.
Artificial intelligence and automation in "Trident"
Engineers have incorporated an AI-based guidance system into their design. It autonomously locks onto an enemy target in the sky, and the artificial ‘intelligence’ tracks the target without operator intervention.
The developers have synchronised the laser with radar stations, enabling the collection of precise data on the drones’ flight paths. This integration minimises the system’s reaction time. The laser beam strikes the target precisely, disabling the electronics or setting the UAV’s fuselage alight.
The history of the "Trident"
The creation of the "Trident" was first discussed in December 2024. At that time, the first commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces, Vadym Sukharevsky, mentioned the new development. Since then, the designers have progressed from a rough concept to a fully-fledged combat model.
In April 2025, the military demonstrated the system in action for the first time. During the demonstration, the "Trident" successfully hit a ground target. Particular attention was drawn to the test against a fibre-optic FPV drone. The laser was able to instantly blind the drone’s camera. This renders the drone completely uncontrollable, and the enemy loses visual contact and control of the situation.
As a reminder, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had previously instructed officials to draft a law on private military companies.
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