‘Show of force’: US deploys laser-equipped warship to Japan with eye on China war threat

A US warship equipped with the advanced Helios laser weapon is being forward-deployed to Japan’s Yokosuka naval base, south of Tokyo, as a “show of force” to potential rivals in the increasingly tense Indo-Pacific region, analysts say.

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Preble departed the US Navy base in San Diego on Sunday and is scheduled to carry out tests of its Helios system – a high-energy laser with integrated optical-dazzler and surveillance – during its crossing of the Pacific, according to the navy in a statement.

“The forward presence of the Preble supports the United States’ commitment to the defence of Japan, enhances the national security of the United States and improves its ability to protect strategic interests,” the statement added. “Preble will directly support the Defence Strategic Guidance to posture the most capable units forward in the Indo-Pacific region.”

The deployment coincides with the release of Navigation Plan 2024, the US Navy’s outlook on the challenges ahead. Issued by Admiral Lisa Franchetti, the chief of naval operations, the report states for the first time that the navy must be ready for the “possibility of war with the People’s Republic of China by 2027”.

The 30-page report identifies China as the greatest threat to US interests.