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A team of researchers from China’s National University of Defence Technology of the PLA has achieved a breakthrough by equipping small drones with the ability to emit powerful laser beams, an achievement once considered impossible for compact platforms. This technology could transform modern warfare, allowing drones to perform precision strikes with unprecedented power.
Led by scientist Li Xiao, the team developed a system that enables small drones to direct high-powered laser beams at enemy targets. Unlike conventional lasers, which require large equipment to generate powerful beams, these drones can reflect laser beams received from the ground, amplifying it to over 30kW. This process allows the laser to bypass obstacles like buildings, striking targets from advantageous angles, even in complex environments.
The laser beam’s power is immense—200 million times more intense than typical laser wavelengths. At just five microwatts, the beam is strong enough to cause blindness or vaporize tissue on contact, according to Interesting Engineering. This capability could be used to disable enemy equipment or cut through metal armor with extreme precision. According to the research, the technology could also have military applications where a single drone could face off against a group of enemy soldiers by emitting a laser strong enough to incapacitate them or destroy their weapons.
The system consists of two primary components: a receiver that captures the laser beam sent from the ground and a reflective device that redirects it toward the target. The reflective tubes are guided by high-precision elevation servos and azimuth turntables, ensuring the laser is accurately directed. Advanced mirrors are used to maintain the integrity of the beam’s optical path.
One of the biggest challenges the researchers faced was controlling the vibrations caused by the drone’s movement. These vibrations could cause the laser beam to scatter, reducing accuracy. To address this, the team focused on developing advanced vibration isolation technology to stabilize the system during flight.
With this new laser-equipped drone, China’s military capabilities have taken a significant leap forward, offering new possibilities for rapid, precise attacks in a variety of combat scenarios.