WASHINGTON — A US destroyer equipped with the latest laser weapon departed San Diego for Yokosuka, Japan, on Sunday just days after the navy released its annual navigation blueprint, which now focuses on readiness to combat China by 2027.

The USS Preble is the only vessel among 73 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers in the US Navy carrying a high-energy laser weapon that could be used to shoot down drones and missiles, a navy spokesperson said.