Boeing Introduces Super Accurate Drone-Killing Laser [Watch]
Drones are becoming even more common, and while some are useful, others can be potentially harmful, used in unauthorized ways. Boeing has developed an extremely accurate laser weapon to take down these drones, if needed.
Drones, also called unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), sometimes fly too close to commercial aircraft or enter restricted airspace. Though various methods have been proposed and put forward to deny UAVs certain airspaces, including anti-drone shotgun shells and high-tech geofencing, Boeing has decided to go on the offensive and unveiled their Compact Laser Weapon System.
Wednesday, Boeing showed off how accurate its new laser weaoin was with a demonstration in Albuquerque, New Mexico
The Compact Laser Weapon System is a scaled-down version of the company's High Energy Laser Mobile Demonstrator, which Boeing designed for the U.S. Army. The device is capable of burning holes through recreational drones with a two-kilowatt infrared laser in just two seconds, according to Wired.
Boeing has not released the range or price of the laser cannon, but its accuracy is what is most impressive. The laser is capable of targeting specific parts of the drone, allowing for a customized attack for each situation.
However, in a recent demonstration at Point Mugu in California, Boeing was able to track and shoot down a UAV in 15 seconds using the Compact Laser Weapon System.
The laser system is very easy to use, with a quick and portable design. Once the unit is positioned, the laser is controlled with a simple video game controller. Automatic tracking can be done with an attached laptop.
The system will be affordable to maintain, and its only real cost would be electricity, being capable of firing a couple rounds with just a simple battery pack or a common electrical outlet.
Available within the next two years, the Compact Laser Weapon System could become a popular tool to keep the skies clear.
Check out the video released by Boeing of the Compact Laser Weapon System in action:
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