Chinese defense contractors are reportedly making laser weapons available to the nation's soldiers and police officers, according to a new report.
Popular Science — citing state military publication PLA Daily — said that the new weapons are intended to respond to the increasing use of unmanned military systems.
International pacts forbid the use of lasers or other blinding weapons against people, but the Chinese technology could disrupt sensors on vehicles, aircraft and robots without violating those standards.
The PY132A laser, which was displayed at a Chinese police expo, could be used against drones, while the Low Altitude Guard II could shoot down rockets or artillery shells.
Similar weapons could also disrupt security cameras, booby traps or thermal imagers on tanks.
