Laser induced plasma ignition(LIPI) is a new technique for engine ignition. It is revealed that LIPI has benefits in many aspects, including reduction of erosion effects, increase of engine efficiency, shorter combustion time, more accurate location of ignition, and multipoint ignition simultaneously. Therefore it has a wide developing prospect. This paper mainly aimed at the key component-laser source, of LIPI and made a comprehensive review for the development of the laser source and the latest achievements. Furthermore, the development prospect of this kind laser was also predicted.