Powerful anti-drone laser spotted on PLA amphibious ship in South China Sea

A cutting-edge laser defense system, known as the Liaoyuan-1 (LY-1), has been observed aboard a Type 071 amphibious landing ship in the South China Sea. The PLA's joint air and naval drill at Scarborough Shoal on August 1 revealed the laser weapon on board the Qilianshan, a key addition to the ship's anti-drone capabilities. Retired Taiwanese navy lieutenant commander Lu Li-shih identified the object behind the Qilianshan's 76mm gun as the LY-1, which was introduced during Beijing's Victory Day military parade in September.

The LY-1 serves as the final line of defense against incoming missiles and drones within the ship's air-defense system. Sen. Collin Koh of the Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies in Singapore stated that amphibious ships rely heavily on high-energy weapons like the LY-1, particularly when operating near enemy waters. The drill, marking the 95th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army, aimed to send a message to the Philippines and the US, with the USS George Washington currently stationed in the region.

China has been increasingly deploying directed-energy weapons, such as lasers, on various amphibious ships, including Type 071, Type 075, and the larger Type 076. These weapons offer advantages like high endurance and low operating costs, making them an effective countermeasure against rapidly advancing unmanned aerial warfare. The Qilianshan is the second Type 071 vessel to be equipped with the LY-1, following the Simingshan in October.

Recent reports suggest the Hainan, a Type 075 vessel, may also be equipped with high-energy weapons, including one designed to disrupt early-warning aircraft signals.