Ukraine has developed a cutting-edge laser weapon that is ready to shoot down Russian jets, a military commander has revealed.

The weapon is known as Tryzub (Trident), and is thought to have been modelled on a UK prototype after designs were shared with Kyiv earlier this year.

Col Vadym Sukharevskyi, the commander of Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces, said the advanced laser system is capable of downing aircraft at distances of more than 2km.