China says it successfully tests laser system that detects and destroys low-flying drones

BEIJING – State media say Chinese engineers have successfully tested a laser weapon to shoot down low-flying, slow-moving drones.

Citing a statement from the China Academy of Engineering Physics, the English-language newspaper China Daily said Tuesday the Low Altitude Sentinel system can detect a small aircraft within a 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) radius and shoot it down within five seconds.

China Daily says the system is designed to destroy small drones flying below 500 meters (1,600 feet) at a speed less than 180 kilometers per hour (110 mph).

The official Xinhua News Agency says the system could be installed in vehicles and help guard against flying objects during major events in urban areas.

Laser defense is being pursued by several countries, including the U.S., which has deployed a prototype weapon on a navy ship.