Chinese scientists are researching a new handheld laser weapon capable of burning skin and clothing from distances of up to half a mile (over 800 meters).
According to the South China Morning Post, this new laser rifle will be utilized by counter-terrorism teams within China’s armed police forces. Prototype versions of this firearm have been showcased at the Chinese Academy of Optics and Precision Mechanics in Shaanxi.
Police can strike targets from a distance without resorting to lethal force.
The ZKZM Assault Rifle will create a “instant burn” effect on human tissue and can “ignite clothing within a second.” An anonymous researcher from the Chinese Academy of Sciences added, “If the clothing is made of flammable material, the laser beam from the rifle could cause the entire body to catch fire.”
The weapon is not powerful enough to kill someone, but researchers state it inflicts “pain beyond tolerance.”
Potential scenarios for using the laser weapon include hostage rescue operations. Police can engage targets from a distance without the need for lethal force.
The laser beams are invisible to the naked eye, allowing this weapon to be used for covert operations. This laser gun weighs 3 kg and is roughly the size of an AK-47.
Laser weapons have long been a product of science fiction. Battery limitations remain the main challenge for scientists in developing this type of weapon.
The aerospace and defense giant Lockheed Martin has previously developed laser beam systems capable of targeting aircraft or ground vehicles.
This laser weapon weighs 3 kg and is approximately the size of an AK-47.
The advantage of laser guns over traditional weapons lies in their “silence,” cost-effectiveness, and reduced collateral damage.
Experimenting with laser guns to cut trees.
