Directed energy belongs in a layered defence

Are defensive missiles and guns becoming less viable as sophisticated threats multiply?

Directed energy may help, but it needs substantial power and cannot replace every gun function; a layered mix of systems remains preferable.

Directed-energy weapons may help against increasingly numerous and sophisticated threats, but existing ships face power-generation and cabling limits. Reserved physical space alone does not give a current hull the electrical generation and connections that the weapon requires. A conventional gun can also fire a meaningful warning shot in ways a destructive laser cannot. Non-lethal sound and laser systems may warn a small boat, although that constabulary task differs from signalling between warships. A mixed, layered fit retains both energy weapons and rapid-firing guns.