China Engineers High-Speed Laser-Powered Submarines Comparable to Jet Engines

 

Chinese Researchers Report Progress in Laser Submarine Propulsion

Harbin, China - Chinese researchers at Harbin Engineering University are reportedly close to a significant breakthrough in underwater propulsion technology. Their design utilizes lasers to propel submarines at speeds rivaling jet engines.

This innovative system hinges on generating
plasma, a superheated gas, underwater with lasers. The interaction creates a powerful "detonation wave" that thrusts the submarine forward.

Prior attempts at laser propulsion struggled with controlling the direction of the thrust. However, the researchers claim to have overcome this hurdle.

The proposed method involves equipping submarines with a network of ultra-thin optical fibers, each coated with laser-emitting materials. Simulations suggest this approach could generate up to 70,000 newtons of thrust, comparable to a commercial jet engine, with just 2 megawatts of laser power.

The potential for supersonic underwater travel, coupled with the inherent quietness of laser propulsion, has some experts concerned about an arms race and the weaponization of this technology. The strategic and ethical implications of such advancements necessitate international dialogue.