China unveils Guangjian series combat lasers
Two new Chinese laser systems. On the left is the Guangjian-21A, on the right is the Guangjian-11E.
In recent years, China has been actively developing laser weapons for various purposes, regularly unveiling new models. Recently, the existence of two new combat lasers on a self-propelled platform, designed to enhance ground air defense, was revealed. The two systems, collectively known as "Guangjian," are designed to combat unmanned aerial vehicles and target them in different ways.
Two samples
As always, Chinese industry developed new combat lasers behind closed doors. The existence of the two "Guangjian" (Light Arrow) projects became known after the completion of key development stages, the construction of prototypes, and, apparently, the first testing at the test site.
A few days ago, a Chinese television channel unveiled two new laser systems to the public for the first time. Their report featured two prototypes and revealed their key capabilities and specifications. However, as always, the most interesting details remained unknown.
The advanced laser systems have been designated "Guangjian-11E" and "Guangjian-21A." The numbers indicate differences in their key characteristics and associated combat capabilities. The significance of the latter letters is still unknown.
Guangjian-11E, left side
Guangjian systems are proposed as a modern counter-UAV system for small and medium-sized UAVs. They are designed to maintain alert status, detect, and suppress or destroy such targets. The systems have different levels of key performance characteristics, which determines the specifics of their use. For example, the less powerful Guangjian-11E is designed to suppress the optics of enemy UAVs, while the 21A is capable of damaging their structure.
A recent report showed testing of the complexes at a testing ground with work on drones-quadcopters. Using standard detection equipment, the Guangjiang successfully detected and tracked these targets. A targeted laser then intercepted them. Interception occurred at altitudes of 50-80 meters, where traditional anti-aircraft weapons encounter known difficulties.
The prospects for the two combat lasers are not yet being disclosed. However, it is clear that the Guangjian projects have made significant progress. They have already entered full-scale testing, and the systems have even been cleared for television broadcasts.
This progress suggests that the Light Arrows will soon be deployed to the People's Liberation Army of China. As early as September, these weapons could be displayed at the next military parade in Beijing—as is always the case with new Chinese-developed systems.
Combat module of the "low-power" complex
General solutions
The two new Chinese laser systems belong to the same class of equipment and share similar missions. While their development utilized common ideas and solutions, they were implemented using different components. As a result, the Guangjian systems are similar but have significant differences, primarily in their key performance characteristics.
Both systems are built in standardized containers. This allows them to be mounted on various platforms or used stationary. For example, the demonstrated experimental systems are built on truck chassis or semi-trailers with sufficient load capacity. These systems are capable of independently changing positions, accompanying troops, etc.
The container houses all the necessary equipment for the system, including power supplies, control systems, and the laser module itself. Apparently, the crew cabin, complete with the necessary controls and instruments, is also located there.
A combat module with a laser and other equipment is mounted on the roof of the container. It is likely retracted into the hull during stowage for protection from external influences. The module's design provides 360-degree traverse and significant elevation angles, necessary for engaging air targets. Due to the use of different lasers and other equipment, the two modules differ significantly from each other.
The rooftop radar of the Guangjiang-11E
Both Guangjian systems are equipped with solid-state lasers and associated optics for beamforming. The lasers in the two systems have different characteristics. It can be assumed that the numbers in the system designations indicate their maximum output power. In this case, the Guangjian-11E produces 11 kW, while the second system is almost twice as powerful.
The Guangjian-21A combat module is equipped with a radar for air surveillance and target acquisition. The second module has a separate antenna post mounted on the roof of the hull. Both systems utilize compact active phased array antennas. Two types of radars are used, each with different characteristics, matching the capabilities of the lasers.
Guangjian products are also equipped with a standard set of day and night optics. The video camera and thermal imager are likely used to directly aim the laser at the target and monitor the firing results.
It is curious that the two complexes, despite all their similarities, are assigned different roles in DefenseThus, the less powerful Guangjian-11E will primarily target the optics of enemy UAVs or high-precision systems. The more powerful Guangjian-21A is proposed for destroying such targets. However, the suppression or interception range, as well as other details, have not yet been disclosed.
Combat module of the Guangjian-21A complex
In the interests of air defense
It's well known that the Chinese defense industry has long been working on developing various classes of laser weapons capable of solving various combat missions. To date, it has unveiled a number of such developments. Land-based and naval systems have been demonstrated, and some have even been used in real-life clashes and incidents.
Development of this promising area continues, and China is now ready to unveil two new systems to the public, under the common name "Guangjian." They are similar to each other and to previous developments, but have a number of important differences.
The main difference lies in the laser power. This parameter determines the firing range, the impact on the target, combat capabilities, etc. In the Guangjian projects, the difference in parameters is used to address the distinct tasks of suppression and destruction. Two combat lasers form a system with expanded capabilities. They can be used independently, in pairs, or in conjunction with other air defense systems.
"Light Arrows" are designed primarily to combat certain classes of UAVs. They can suppress or destroy various fixed-wing aircraft or copters, including those using cable control. Such capabilities have already been demonstrated during tests, and the operation of all onboard systems was also demonstrated.
The two new systems have all the necessary functions and capabilities. For example, the existing three-channel detection system should detect expected aerial targets with a high probability and track them. Laser guidance is also not an overly complex task. Then, depending on various factors, the target is either suppressed or destroyed.
Over a wide range, both systems can temporarily or permanently disable optical instruments. Furthermore, starting from a certain distance, structural damage is also caused. Most common UAVs are not particularly survivable, which will help the Guangjiang systems accomplish their missions.
New approach
China has already unveiled several indigenously developed combat laser systems. There have also been reports of several other similar projects. The latest additions to this lineup are two "Guangjian" systems. They are already undergoing testing and have every chance of being deployed.
These complexes show that China is capable of creating modern laser weaponMoreover, Chinese industry is developing and implementing new and exciting ideas. The Guangjian project marks the first time that the company is developing partially standardized laser systems. This will enable them to gain various new capabilities. All this means that China is now not only developing laser weapons but also incorporating various bold ideas in new projects aimed at enhancing their performance and overall potential.
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