China is arming civilian ships with military lasers. They are intended to protect against “drone swarms”

The Chinese Navy has installed an experimental LY-1 laser weapon on board civilian cargo ships, probably in preparation for amphibious operations, Defense Blog suggested after analyzing photos showing one of such armed units.

Photos posted on Chinese social media platforms document a ro-ro cargo ship carrying a camouflaged heavy military vehicle attached to the deck with eight chains. The vehicle is topped with a white, rotating turret containing the LY-1 laser.

China previously mounted the weapon on its twin Qilianshan amphibious assault ships.

Ro-ro ships are designed to transport cargo that can be rolled onto them without the help of cranes, such as vehicles. They have large, flat decks, making them perfect for transporting heavy military equipment. China is increasingly using them as support platforms in amphibious exercises.

Recently Beijing has placed great emphasis on preparations for large-scale sea landings. Currently, their most likely target is Taiwan. Potentially, to get it, China would have to send hundreds of warships and civilian transport ships. The latter would be almost defenseless against the attack of thousands of drones sent by the defending inhabitants of the island. Such a scenario would be prevented by the laser weapon mounted on their deck.

And LY-1 is a directed energy system designed to destroy at a relatively short distance, among others. drones, light helicopters and loitering munitions.

This weapon, developed by many armies of the world, is still in the testing phase, especially its variants used at sea. Lasers are sensitive to clouds, rain and even fog. (PAP)

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