During its largest-ever military parade in Beijing, China presented the LY-1 high-power laser system, granting the public its first glimpse of the next-generation directed-energy weapon. The display emphasized the country’s technological push into advanced air and missile defense solutions.
Although shown on a wheeled HZ141 armored carrier, reports suggest the LY-1’s main purpose is for maritime self-defense applications. The larger size of the ground-based version implies space for expanded power supplies, potentially raising its output performance beyond shipboard limits.
At the center of the design is a prominent beam-firing aperture mounted on a turret, with multiple EO/IR sensors assisting in precision targeting. Observers also noted a box-like attachment, likely accommodating radar and passive radio-frequency detection systems for comprehensive tracking capabilities.
The unveiling underlines China’s effort to field laser weapons as part of integrated defense systems, enhancing its ability to counter drones, missiles, and aerial threats across multiple domains.
