Peresvet, a Russian laser weapon, is new. It's named after Alexander Peresvet (a medieval Orthodox monk, and warrior), who was killed in a battle against Temir-murza the Mongol champion.
Russian air forces are expected to use the weapon to combat a variety of threats. It can track and shoot down satellites and drones.
It is also expected that it will "blind", preventing sophisticated enemy systems from operating. It is designed to work in conjunction with optical telescopes and space surveillance radars throughout the country, forwarding data for Peresvet laser combat troops.
Russia's first ground-based laser system capable dazzling and blinding satellites in orbit is now functional. It will work in close collaboration with the Kalina satellite dazzler and Sokol Eshelon systems. These systems have been in production for many years.
There are many theories about what it will be tasked with, but the primary objective of any laser weapon will likely be to disable or destroy any sensor on the target. This is not the only use of lasers, but it is most common.
A laser can be used to disable satellite communications or blind them, as well as burn out their sensors. Lasers are an excellent tool to deny hostile parties access to the space environment.
It is believed that Peresvet can also be used for attacking enemy aircraft. This would give the Russian air force more lethal options than they currently have against a number of different types of aircraft including the US-made MiG-29 and the F-22.
The Peresvet was first announced by President Vladimir Putin in 2018. It is expected to be an air-defence system that can track and shoot down drones, missiles, and other aircraft.
Although the weapon's exact location is unknown, it was seen mounted on a special chassis with wheels. It is very similar to the one used for many other artillery or missile vehicles.
The vehicle was discovered near Sibirskiy in Russia's Altai region. YouTube has a video that shows the Peresvet laser weapon, also known as "overexposure," slowly emerging from behind fire and a barrier.
This video also shows multiple laser beams being fired simultaneously by the Peresvet and some debris being released from the weapon. However, it is doubtful that the Peresvet has any anti-aircraft weapons capabilities.
It is encouraging that Russia has begun to develop a laser system capable of defending against air-to-air weapons and other weapons. It will be an asset in any Russian operation and will protect Russia from attacks by air-to air missiles.
This is an exciting development and it should be carefully studied. It is likely that the weapon will be in use by the 2022 start of the next round.