China presented portable laser weapons for soldiers to shoot down drones at a defence equipment exhibition in Beijing.
The Defence Information Equipment & Technology Exhibition 2026 opened in Beijing on Tuesday for a three-day run. The Lijian series of high-energy laser weapons, developed by Harbin Xinguang Optic-Electronics Technology, went on display.
The systems can engage drones at ranges up to 1,200 metres. The portable Lijian II and Lijian III models weigh 30kg and 25kg. Each consists of a laser emitter, air cooler and handheld control terminal that can be carried in a bag.
Laser weapons are viewed as a low-cost option for destroying unmanned aerial vehicles compared with bullets or artillery.