Chinese experimental corvette sparks speculation of directed energy weapon test

Experts have speculated that the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) may have tested directed energy weapons on a newly unveiled experimental corvette.

The analysis follows the publication of a photo showing an experimental vessel in late August on X, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The experts observed that the experimental corvette, which is currently unnamed and was first seen in November 2023 at the Dalian shipyard in Liaoning Province, features a launcher (PU) for the HQ-10 short-range anti-aircraft missile system (SAM) on its deckhouse. However, in the latest image, this launcher appears to lack traditional missile cells and instead has a single hole resembling those found on combat lasers. 

While analysts noted that the exact nature of this modification remains unclear—whether it is an electro-optical device, a directed energy weapon, or merely a camouflage for the HQ-10—the absence of definitive evidence has led to some uncertainty. The image resolution does not provide sufficient detail to confirm the launcher’s function with absolute certainty.

The experimental corvette, which follows the design of previously constructed Type-056/056A coastal corvettes, represents China’s ongoing efforts to advance its naval capabilities. The vessel was first constructed at the Dalian shipyard, known for producing various classes of corvettes and coast guard ships for the PLA Navy and Chinese Coast Guard.