A low noise, single mode laser includes a semiconductor gain element generating light and having a highly reflective first end forming a first end of a laser cavity. The gain element may be monolithically or discretely integrated with, or distinct from, and coupled to a waveguide comprised of a low loss material with a refractive index ‘n’ greater than 3. The waveguide includes a Bragg grating forming the second end of the laser cavity. A cavity phase control section may be provided between the gain element and the Bragg grating. Two photodetector monitors provide a feedback signal for locking the light from the gain element to a specific wavelength on the Bragg grating reflection spectrum by varying at least one of the cavity phase control section and the gain element bias current. The Bragg grating may have a physical length larger than 10 mm and that occupies at least 50% of the optical length of the external cavity.