Chinese scientists claim that lasers mounted on submarines could destroy satellites, including SpaceX’s Starlink system. American experts doubt the feasibility due to the energy demands of such weapons.

However, China and other potential adversaries are exploring ways to counter the satellite-based systems that give the US military an edge.

Researchers at the Chinese navy’s Submarine Academy believe submarines are the solution, proposing a design where a submarine equipped with a megawatt-class laser could remain submerged while raising a retractable mast to target satellites.

This method contrasts with current anti-satellite weapons that use ground-fired rockets, Business Insider has reported.

Although offering the potential to target multiple satellites, deploying lasers from submarines poses significant operational challenges.

Written by B.C. Begley