China's Norinco Group Demonstrates Advanced Laser Weapon System in Defensive Drill

On Monday, Norinco Group, a prominent arms manufacturer in China, executed a drill in North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. The exercise highlighted both offensive and defensive strategies using trade-focused ground-based unmanned systems and anti-unmanned combat technologies. A significant part of the demonstration featured the OW5 laser weapon system, which showcased its ability to intercept drones using directed energy as a strategy against unmanned aerial vehicles.

The OW5 is a vehicle-mounted system specifically designed for low-altitude defense against drones, aimed at safeguarding essential sites and transport convoys from aerial attacks. It employs a combination of radar and optoelectronic technologies for efficient target detection, aiming, and tracking. One of the system's notable advantages is that it doesn't rely on ammunition, allowing for quick response times and high precision. According to Ben Chi, an expert from Norinco, the OW5 can engage rapidly moving targets, such as small drones at low altitudes, with the capability to disable their circuits within seconds over several kilometers.

Moreover, the OW5's ability to switch between multiple targets rapidly enhances its functionality. In situations where several drones are present, it can efficiently neutralize one target and transition to another within a few seconds. This versatility makes it a valuable asset in scenarios involving drone threats.