In a groundbreaking development that could revolutionize aerial warfare, Chinese researchers have created a device enabling small drones to direct powerful laser beams - an achievement previously considered impossible due to size constraints.
Led by scientist Li Xiao, the research team developed a system where the drone acts as a sophisticated mirror, receiving and redirecting high-powered laser beams from ground-based sources toward specific targets. This innovative approach bypasses the traditional requirement for drones to carry heavy laser generation equipment.
The system utilizes near-infrared lasers operating at 1080 nanometers wavelength, capable of delivering beam intensities of one kilowatt per square centimeter - powerful enough to cut through metal. The implications for military applications are substantial, as even minimal exposure could cause severe damage to unprotected targets.
Until now, deploying high-powered lasers required truck-sized equipment, making their use on small aerial platforms impractical. The new reflection-based system changes this paradigm by separating the laser generation from the delivery platform.
The research, published in Acta Armamentarii, represents a major shift in drone warfare capabilities. While the technology shows promise, experts emphasize the need for careful consideration of safety protocols and ethical implications before deployment.
This development marks a new chapter in military technology, demonstrating how innovative thinking can overcome long-standing technical limitations in weapons systems.
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