Laser cleaning technology is a new cleaning technology that utilizes the interaction between laser and matter, with the advantages of simple operation, high accuracy, low damage, low emission, and environmental protection. It has been widely studied and investigated by researchers, and many important research results has been proposed, making it very promising for application. Firstly, a brief overview of the development, classification (dry laser cleaning, wet laser cleaning, and laser-induced plasma cleaning), and mechanisms of the laser cleaning technology was presented. A comparative analysis of different cleaning methods was conducted, including the respective strengths and weaknesses, which is helpful for researchers to understand and select this technology for actual situation. In addition, the research progress of the laser cleaning technology in equipment maintenance and support was extensively reviewed according to the literature. Among these, paint removal with the laser has practical applications in foreign aircraft equipment maintenance and support. Rust removal with the laser has been reliably validated on the surface of domestic and foreign naval equipment materials, has an exploration into practical applications abroad. Oil contamination and carbon removal with the laser have been subject to exploratory experimental research both domestically and internationally, but there remains a considerable gap before achieving mature applications. Furthermore, the removal of other contaminants from equipment surfaces, including marine biofouling, mold, and damaged functional coatings, are also discussed. Finally, the research and development of laser cleaning technology are summarized, and prospected.