We demonstrate a system for fast and agile digital control of laser phase, amplitude and frequency for coherently manipulating trapped ions. The full versatility of a direct digital synthesis radiofrequency source is faithfully transferred to laser radiation via acousto-optic modulation. Optical beatnotes are used to measure phase steps up to 2π, which are accurately implemented with a resolution of ≤10 mrad. By linearizing the optical modulation process, amplitude-shaped pulses of durations ranging from 500 ns to 500 ms, in excellent agreement with the programmed functional form, are demonstrated. Pulse durations are limited only by the 30 ns rise time of the modulation process. The laser will be used for the coherent control of ions in the NPL microfabricated trap. We also demonstrate the deterministic transport of ions between the trap segments; this combined with the described trap characteristics offers a promising route to scalability.