The history of direct energy weapons (DEWs) is complex and spans several decades, with ongoing advancements in technology and military applications. The concept of DEWs can be traced back to early experiments with microwave and laser technologies during World War II and the Cold War. These early efforts laid the groundwork for later developments in directed energy technology. In the 1980s, the United States initiated the Strategic Defense Initiative, also known as "Star Wars," which aimed to develop advanced missile defense systems, including DEWs, to protect against ballistic missile attacks. While significant research was conducted, practical DEW deployment remained limited at this time.

   In recent decades, significant progress has been made in the development of laser-based DEWs. These systems utilize high-energy lasers to disable or destroy targets such as drones, missiles, or even vehicles and aircraft. Examples include the U.S. Navy's Laser Weapon System (LaWS) and the Airborne Laser Test Bed. Microwave-based DEWs, also known as radiofrequency weapons, use focused beams of electromagnetic radiation to disrupt or damage electronic systems. These systems have applications in electronic warfare, counter-drone operations, and non-lethal crowd control. Examples include the Active Denial System (ADS) developed by the U.S. military.

   The development of DEW technologies involves significant investment in research, development, and testing. Governments and defense contractors allocate substantial funding to advance DEW capabilities, including materials science, optics, power generation, and beam control. The procurement and deployment of DEW systems entail additional costs, including manufacturing, integration, training, and logistics support. Depending on the complexity and scale of the system, costs can vary significantly, but is it cost effective? Once deployed, DEW systems require ongoing maintenance, power supply, and operational support. Factors such as energy consumption, system reliability, and mission readiness affect operational costs over the system's lifespan. Governments and military organizations assess the cost-effectiveness of DEW systems based on their operational capabilities, performance, and strategic value. Cost-benefit analyses consider factors such as effectiveness against specific threats, versatility, and potential for collateral damage.

   To conclude, the history of DEWs reflects ongoing technological advancements and evolving military strategies. While the costs associated with DEW development and deployment can be significant, their potential effectiveness in various defense and security applications continues to drive interest and investment in directed energy technologies.