China has reportedly developed a new laser weapon capable of hitting targets more than half a mile away.

Researchers involved in the project say the ZKZM-500 laser rifle can "burn through clothes in a split second" and cause "instant carbonization" of human skin, according to Stephen Chen of the South China Morning Post.

"If the fabric is flammable, the whole person will be set on fire," one researcher said.

Described as "non-lethal," the 15mm caliber weapon, which is said to have a range of 800 meters, weighs in at 6.6 lbs.

"The pain will be beyond endurance," the researcher added.

Powered by a rechargeable lithium battery pack, the rifle will be capable of firing more than 1,000 two-second duration shots between charges.