Chinese-Made Silent Hunter Laser Weapon Spotted in Russian Arsenal for the First Time

In a surprising turn of events, new footage has surfaced from Russia showing what appears to be a Chinese-made laser weapon system now in use by Russian forces. The video, released by pro-Kremlin media outlets on 30 May, offers the first clear visual confirmation of a Chinese Silent Hunter 3000 laser system being deployed by Russia’s air defense units.

The footage reportedly comes from a field operation involving the OSpN “Kochevnik” special operations group. In the video, the laser system is initially hidden beneath camouflage netting before being activated during an engagement with an enemy reconnaissance drone. While earlier reports hinted at Russia experimenting with directed-energy weapons, this is the first time a system resembling the Chinese-manufactured Silent Hunter has been seen on Russian soil.

What is the Silent Hunter?

The Silent Hunter — officially known as the Low-Altitude Laser Defending System (LASS) — is a vehicle-mounted, turret-based directed-energy weapon developed by the Chinese Academy of Engineering Physics. This modern laser defense system is designed to neutralize low-flying aerial threats, such as drones and small aircraft.

Key Features and Specifications:

• Laser Power: The Silent Hunter is equipped with a powerful 30-kilowatt laser, capable of burning through lightweight aerial targets.

• Targeting System: It features an advanced optical tracking and targeting suite, enabling operators to lock onto fast-moving targets with high accuracy.

• Effective Range:

  • Can neutralize drones and small aerial vehicles at distances of up to 1.5 kilometers.

  • Capable of disabling optical sensors and surveillance equipment at ranges of up to 3 kilometers.

• Detection Capability: Its radar system reportedly detects aerial targets within a 5-kilometer radius.

• Operational Duration: The laser can operate continuously for up to 200 seconds before requiring a cooldown period.

• Deployment Speed: The system can be fully deployed or shut down in under five minutes, making it highly mobile and suitable for rapid-response scenarios.

Significance of This Deployment:

While the Silent Hunter has previously been observed in service with Chinese, Iranian, and Saudi Arabian forces, this marks its first appearance within Russian military ranks. The footage is particularly notable for showing clear visuals of the laser system’s optical tracking suite and vehicle-mounted platform — something that has not been featured in earlier reports.

The use of such a system by Russia highlights a growing trend in modern warfare where nations are turning to directed-energy weapons for counter-drone operations and precision defense. With small, unmanned drones playing an increasingly important role on the modern battlefield, systems like the Silent Hunter offer a cost-effective and efficient way to eliminate these threats without expending expensive missiles or ammunition.

Final Thoughts:

The appearance of a Chinese-made laser weapon in Russia’s arsenal adds a new dimension to the ongoing conflicts and military collaborations between nations. It demonstrates how modern battlefields are rapidly evolving with the introduction of advanced, high-energy laser systems that can silently and efficiently neutralize aerial threats. As drone warfare continues to escalate, the demand for reliable and mobile laser defense platforms like the Silent Hunter is expected to grow.