Chinese subs may soon sport satellite-killing lasers

Chinese scientists have proposed developing laser-equipped submarines to kill satellites stealthily from underwater, potentially revolutionizing anti-satellite (ASAT) warfare.

The South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that People’s Liberation Army (PLA) scientists, led by Professor Wang Dan of the Naval Submarine Academy, have suggested that Chinese submarines could be equipped with megawatt-class, solid-state laser weapons capable of targeting satellites such as SpaceX’s extensive Starlink network while remaining submerged.

The report says this approach addresses the challenge of concealing ASAT operations, which rely on ground-to-air missiles that can easily betray the launch site’s location.

It mentions that the proposed laser attack submarines could use a retractable optoelectronic mast to fire at satellites and then dive back to depth, enhancing the element of surprise and operational security.

SCMP says the study highlights the inefficiency of using missiles against small, numerous and densely packed satellites like those in the Starlink program and advocates for the mass production of laser-equipped submarines to counter military threats.

It notes that the PLA scientists’ paper provides a detailed guide for attacking Starlink-like satellites, emphasizing the need for satellite position guidance from other forces due to the limitations of the submarine’s detection equipment.

In addition to ASAT operations, the report says laser-equipped submarines could perform various tasks, including attacking anti-submarine aircraft, escorting merchant ships and striking land-based targets.

Nuclear attack submarines (SSN) may be ideal platforms for mounting laser weapons, with their nuclear reactors providing enough power for