Similar to the concept of pulse detonation engine (PDE), a detonation generated in the “combustion chamber” due to incoming laser absorption can produce the thrust basically much higher than the one that a laser‐supported deflagration wave can provide. Such a laser‐supported detonation wave concept has been theoretically studied by the first author for about 20 years in view of its application to space propulsion. The entire work is reviewed in the present paper. The initial condition for laser absorption can be provided by increasing the electron density using electric discharge. Thereafter, once a standing/running detonation wave is formed, the laser absorption can continuously be performed by the classical absorption mechanism called Inverse Bremsstrahlung behind a strong shock wave. © 2004 American Institute of Physics