Laser Focus: Countering China’s LiDAR Threat to U.S. Critical Infrastructure and Military Systems

Craig Singleton & RADM (Ret.) Mark Montgomery

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Introduction

“Only by mastering crucial core technologies within our own hands,” said Chinese Communist Party General Secretary Xi Jinping, “can we [China] truly seize the initiative in competition and development, and fundamentally safeguard our national economic security, national security, and security in other domains.”1 Xi’s declaration underscores his desire to transform China into a science and technology great power, which, he argues, hinges on tightening “international production chains’ dependence on China.”2 LiDAR, a remote sensing technology with both military and civilian applications, stands at the center of Beijing’s bid for technological superiority.

Xi’s technological vision is not just an ambition — it is already materializing. Today, Chinese companies are rapidly consolidating control over the global LiDAR market, with PRC-origin sensors now widely deployed across civilian and military networks worldwide, including in the United States. These sensors often serve as essential nodes within interconnected public safety, transportation, and utility systems, which is a clear benefit to the United States. However, Chinese LiDAR’s system-wide integration also leaves its users vulnerable to espionage and sabotage, potentially enabling Beijing to access sensitive U.S. data or disrupt critical operations.