China unveils mobile lasers to kill drones in radar blind spots

China has introduced two new laser-based air defense systems, the Guangjian-11E and Guangjian-21A, designed to counter small, low-flying drones that evade traditional radar detection by operating within radar blind spots at altitudes of 50 to 80 meters. These systems address a critical vulnerability in modern air defenses exposed by the increasing use of low-cost, swarm-capable UAVs in recent conflicts. The Guangjian-11E employs a non-kinetic approach combining electronic warfare and directed energy to disrupt drone sensors and communications, effectively neutralizing threats without destruction. In contrast, the Guangjian-21A is a vehicle-mounted high-energy laser weapon capable of physically disabling drones by damaging their propulsion or electronics, even while on the move. Both systems integrate phased-array radar and infrared sensors to enhance detection and tracking of low-observable targets, and they are networked for real-time data sharing and coordinated engagement, enabling faster response times. This layered counter-drone strategy reflects a broader shift