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China-Linked Laser Weapons Now Targeting Ukrainian Long-Range Drones
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Russian mobile air defense units have begun using laser-based systems to intercept Ukrainian long-range strike drones. While earlier evidence was limited to footage of training exercises targeting decoys, new material confirms operational use against Ukrainian aircraft.
According to Defense Express on August 13, recently released video shows a Ukrainian FP-1 strike drone being destroyed by a Russian laser. The FP-1, first publicly unveiled in May, has already been deployed for deep-strike missions into Russian territory.
🛑 Russian forces have used a China-linked laser air defense system to shoot down a Ukrainian FP-1 long-range drone — the first confirmed combat use against this type of UAV. pic.twitter.com/5qndeRNwt1
— Ivan Khomenko (@KhomenkoIv60065) August 13, 2025
Russia has previously showcased a system referred to as LASS (Low-Altitude Laser Defending System), believed to be developed by the China Academy of Engineering Physics.
LASS reportedly delivers 10–20 kW of power, requiring around 10 seconds of sustained targeting to disable an aerial target. Its effective range is estimated at 1.5 km for destruction and up to 3 km for optical disruption.
These systems are considered short-range air defense assets, comparable to anti-aircraft artillery but potentially more efficient than heavy machine guns often mounted on mobile units.
Analysts suggest that countering such lasers may require shifting toward weapons less vulnerable to directed-energy interception, such as cruise and ballistic missiles. Increasing the speed and altitude of long-range drones—similar to modifications Russia has made to Shahed-type UAVs—could also reduce their exposure to laser targeting.
Earlier, Russia unveiled a prototype laser rifle designed to neutralize drones, presenting it at the All-Russian Conference on Protecting Civilian Infrastructure from Unmanned Aerial System Attacks on March 27. Developers said the weapon is intended to improve defenses against drone threats, particularly around critical infrastructure.
