The US military has deployed high-energy laser weapons on warships in the Strait of Hormuz and has used them against drones and other aerial threats, according to reports cited in the source material.
The weapons are operated with modified Xbox-style controllers. The familiar controls can make it easier for sailors to learn how to use the system, as many are already used to the basic layout of a gaming controller.
A similar system was tested on the USS George H.W. Bush, where it tracked and engaged several drones.
The system being used in West Asia is known as High-Energy Laser with Integrated Optical Dazzler and Surveillance, or HELIOS. It uses a 60-kilowatt laser and is mounted on large warships because of its size and weight.
Cost is one of the main reasons the US military is interested in laser weapons.
A single laser engagement costs about $13 in electricity, according to the supplied reports. An
Content Original Link:
" target="_blank">
