The video you can see below is from the Chinese military parade on September 3, 2025, showcasing the LY-1, a high-power laser weapon system. This system, primarily developed for shipboard self-defense, was displayed in a form suggesting potential land-based applications, marking a significant technological advancement in directed energy weapons.

The LY-1’s public debut at the parade, which commemorated the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, aligns with China’s strategy to demonstrate its military modernization and technological prowess.

The introduction of the LY-1 occurs in a context where the U.S. has faced challenges in developing similar laser technologies, often due to issues with power, cooling, and ruggedness for combat use. This contrast highlights China’s rapid advancements in military technology, potentially shifting the balance of power in directed energy weapons and prompting a reevaluation of global military strategies.