Chinese news sites reported recently some scientific R&D institution in China successfully made prototype of a 100KW aircraft-based laser weapon system, which is to be tested soon.
It is reported that the institution proposes an Ytterbium -Raman integrated fiber amplifier structure, which effectively solves the main technical bottleneck of Raman fiber laser power boost. And its near diffraction limit output power can reach 20KW, and the multi-transverse mode output power can reach 100KW.
Analysts surmise that the system would be installed on J-20 stealth fighter. It’s also reported that the similar system has been exposed previously in China, while its power was too small, only about a dozen KW, and the most advanced laser weapon of the US military is only dozens of KW, less than the threshold of 100KW. However, only when the power reaches 100KW or more, the laser weapon system can be called mature. And if the weight of the whole system can be controlled at a level of several hundred kilograms, similar to a machine gun, then it could be equipped for a fighter.
It was reported that the United States is already preparing to test the airborne laser weapon system on F-35 fighters. The test is expected to begin in 2021 and to be put into practice in 2025.
At the same time, the US military also performed tests of different types of laser weapons on B-52 bombers and drones. Under continuous support of soaring military expenditures, the United States will not take too long to finish small-type airborne laser weapon system. If it is successful, it will be possible to see such weapons on US stealth fighters in the next few years.