Laser weapon blasts through truck

[eddo36 16]

Lockheed Martin, the defense and security technology company, demonstrated the power of its Advanced Test High Energy Asset (ATHENA) laser weapon system by blasting a small truck in a recent field test. According to the company, the demonstration was the highest power ever documented by this kind of laser weapon.

In the demonstration, the 30-kilowatt fiber laser weapon was able to disable the truck’s engine. The purpose of the test was to show the company’s innovations in developing weapons technology that is more precise.

“Fiber-optics lasers are revolutionizing direct energy systems,†Keoki Jackson, Lockheed Martin’s chief technology officer, said in a statement. “We are investing in every component of the system – from the optics and beam control to the laser itself – to drive size, weight, and power efficiencies.â€

ATHENA is a ground-based prototype system. In the test, the laser burnt through the engine in a just a few seconds, after being fired from over a mile away.

Through the “spectral beam combining†technique, multiple fiber laser modules come together to establish a sole, high-quality beam that “provides greater efficiency and lethality than multiple individual 10-kilowatt lasers used in other systems.â€

For Jackson, this demonstration shows signs of the kinds of defense technology that the company hopes to continue to develop.

“This test represents the next step to providing lightweight and rugged laser weapon systems for military, aircraft helicopters, ships and trucks,†he added.

The military is already testing laser weapons. The Office of Naval Research, for example, is building a laser weapon that will be able to shoot down aerial drones.

http://www.foxnews.com/tech/2015/03/06/lockheed-martin-demos-high-powered-laser-weapon-blasts-through-truck/

[sudayev 27]

Railguns and lasers. The next big thing for the US military.

[Tonci87 163]

Railguns and lasers. The next big waste of money for the US military.

Fixed that for you.

[krycek 349]

I guess no one will mock others again with "what,you want zomg lazors,man?" when presented with futuristic ideas.

Also,bring back the railtank in A3.:blues:

[sudayev 27]

Sure, the progress costs but the America can afford the development of such fine future tech

http://www.livescience.com/48379-how-laser-gun-works.html

[drebin052 324]

RA3 anyone?

Couldn't resist. And yes, I know it's not an orbital space laser.

[roberthammer 582]

RA3 anyone?

Couldn't resist. And yes, I know it's not an orbital space laser.

You meant this thing