China now has a laser system to shoot drones

China now has a laser system to shoot drones
(Image credit: Joern Haufe/Getty Images)

China has revealed a new laser weapon system that will "shoot down light drones at low altitude," according to Phys.org.

China's state-run Xinhua news agency reported that the laser can take down "various small aircraft" in as little as five seconds. Xinhua reported that the laser system will "play a key role in ensuring security during major events in urban areas." The laser system has a 1.2-mile range and is effective against drones flying at speeds as fast as 112 mph.

In a recent test, the laser system shot down more than 30 drones with a "100 percent success rate," according to a statement from the China Academy of Engineering Physics.

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Meghan DeMaria

Meghan DeMaria is a staff writer at TheWeek.com. She has previously worked for USA Today and Marie Claire.