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Chinese 2.47 kW Portable Laser Operates in Extreme Temperatures Without Cooling and Promises Military and Industrial Applications Anywhere on the Planet
Researchers from the National University of Defense Technology of China announced the development of a new type of high-power portable laser weapon.
The device reaches 2.47 kW and operates in extreme temperature conditions, from -50 °C to 50 °C, without needing additional heating or cooling systems.
Laser Weapon That Works Anywhere, Anytime
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This is possible thanks to a series of technical advancements that reduce the heat production of the system and protect the most temperature-sensitive components.
One of the innovations lies in the design of the pump lasers, which naturally generate less heat. These lasers are responsible for powering the main fiber.
The team also applied a light injection method with multiple directions—nine diodes forward and eighteen backward—that improves the thermal balance of the system.
Additionally, heat-sensitive components were positioned outside the laser’s central cavity, which helps protect them from abrupt changes in temperature.
Another highlight is the cooling of the compact fiber, reduced to a diameter of 8 centimeters. This helps suppress parasitic modes that waste energy or compromise beam stability.
The Secret Lies in Ytterbium
One of the key elements of this innovation is the use of ytterbium. This rare earth metal, abundant in China, has proven to be highly effective in laser generation.
In the developed system, ytterbium allowed for an efficiency of 71% in converting energy into laser light. The result was a high-quality beam, with a maximum power of 2.47 kW at a temperature of 20 °C.
This level of power is sufficient to disable drones and cut various materials from over a kilometer away. The nearly perfect beam quality also allows for high-precision applications.
Advantages Over Competitors
The new Chinese laser stands out for its portability. Unlike other known systems, such as France’s HELMA-P or India’s IDDIS, which require heavy trucks and structures to operate, the new laser weapon can be transported in a suitcase. This makes it suitable for mobile units, field operations, or use attached to drones.
Another important differentiator is that the absence of heavy cooling systems eliminates dependence on infrastructure, facilitating the use of the equipment in remote locations. This can be a decisive factor in both military operations and civilian applications.
Military and Industrial Applications
The equipment was developed to serve both the defense sector and industry. In the military field, portability and the ability to operate in any environment provide significant tactical advantages. For example, use in combat can be more agile and discreet.
In industry, the laser can be used for high-precision cutting, complex welding, and protection against drones in strategic areas.
It is also a viable option for factories located in regions with extreme climates, where temperature control is not always possible.
Another strategic factor is China’s dominance over the global supply of ytterbium. This gives the country a technological edge and production control in this laser segment.
Plans for the Future
Chen Jinbao, vice president of the National University of Defense Technology and leader of the research, reported that the next steps include further increasing power, expanding the temperature range, and better integrating components to make the device more compact and durable.
“We will continue to advance experimental research and engineering development“, said Chen, emphasizing that the team aims to make the system even more efficient and adaptable to different scenarios.
The innovation marks a new stage in the development of laser weapons, with potential global impact.
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