Index: code/ai/aicode.cpp
===================================================================
--- code/ai/aicode.cpp	(revision 4831)
+++ code/ai/aicode.cpp	(working copy)
@@ -6549,9 +6554,9 @@
 	}
 
 	// regular lasers
-	if (shipp->weapon_energy > The_mission.ai_profile->link_energy_levels_always[Game_skill_level]) {
+	if (shipp->weapon_energy * 100.0f / sip->max_weapon_reserve > The_mission.ai_profile->link_energy_levels_always[Game_skill_level]) {
 		shipp->flags |= SF_PRIMARY_LINKED;
-	} else if (shipp->weapon_energy > The_mission.ai_profile->link_energy_levels_maybe[Game_skill_level]) {
+	} else if (shipp->weapon_energy * 100.0f / sip->max_weapon_reserve > The_mission.ai_profile->link_energy_levels_maybe[Game_skill_level]) {
 		if (objp->hull_strength < shipp->ship_max_hull_strength/3.0f)
 			shipp->flags |= SF_PRIMARY_LINKED;
 	}