A laser defense system developed by Chinese researchers that can intercept and attack small drones was named one of the top ten technology breakthroughs last year by the Chinese government, reports China's nationalistic tabloid Global Times. The researchers aim to enhance the system's range and power and coordinate multiple of the system in urban areas in the future. State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry made the announcement on Monday and awarded certificates to the research teams involved.
The system, first revealed to the public in November last year, was co-developed by the China Jiuyuan Hi-tech Equipment Corporation and China Academy of Engineering Physics. It is able to shoot down various small aircraft flying at speeds below 50 m/sec at altitudes of up to 500 meters within a two-kilometer radius and can do so in five seconds after locating its target. It reportedly shot down 30 small aircraft in tests with a 100% success rate.
The system's lasers are able to intercept targets without noise, which makes the system the top choice for the government in protecting low-altitude airspace, said Ma Yinguo, the party secretary of China Jiuyuan Hi-tech Equipment Corporation.
The system is contained in two metal boxes but in the future will be contained in a single box, Ma said. Its mobility will also be enhanced to be installed on vehicles, Ma added.
The company has been developing another system with more powerful and longer-range lasers and plans to coordinate a single or multiple laser systems in the future to provide air security for a wide range of urban areas, the report said.
The company has also been developing anti-crowd device that sends microwaves that can inflict pain on people within a 200-meter radius to force them to move away. The device can also prevent vehicles from entering certain locations by disrupting or damaging the vehicle's ignition system or a generator's electronic system.
References:
Ma Yinguo 馬寅國