China is studying the possibility of integrating laser weapons into submarines

China seeks to enhance submarine power through the potential integration of laser weapons.

Here's What We Know

An article published in the Chinese journal Command Control & Simulation points to the increasingly acute challenges faced by submarines, especially with the advent of sophisticated anti-submarine weapons.

It is noted that traditional defence tactics, such as changes in speed, direction and depth, provide only limited effectiveness against modern aircraft with powerful detection and weapon systems.

The article suggests that directed energy weapons may offer an updated and more effective means of defending submarines. If the planned integration goes ahead, it could be the perfect time for Beijing as it transitions to electric and nuclear submarines, which can provide the necessary power for high-energy laser weapons.

It is worth noting that integrating laser weapons into an underwater vehicle would not be easy. The article argues that most submarines have limited internal space that would not be able to accommodate an efficient laser cooling system. To solve this problem, according to the magazine, Beijing could develop a modular fibre laser, similar to the one made by the US company Lockheed Martin.

The laser system uses flexible optical fibres that can be twisted to save space and improve cooling efficiency.

Source: Zhkzyfz.cn