Lasers have been a topic of interest for the military for several decades due to their potential to revolutionize various aspects of warfare. The military use of lasers has gained attention for their precision, speed of light delivery, and potential cost-effectiveness compared to traditional weaponry.
Until recently, the primary focus has predominantly been the laser beam – enhancing its power for efficacy, achieving target acquisition, and ensuring beam control across extended distances.
However, the effectiveness of a laser weapon depends on its practicality!
A powerful laser is useless if it’s bulky and fragile. To be useful in combat, laser weapons must balance power with portability, ensuring they are easy to transport and use effectively.
Northrop Grumman, a prominent American aerospace, and defense technology company has recently revealed the supply of a compact high-energy laser source to the U.S. government.
Known as ‘Phantom’, this 10-kilowatt laser is about 12 cubic feet – nearly the size of a mini fridge.
Weighing under 200 pounds (90.7 kg), the Phantom allows easy lifting, carrying, and rapid setup by just two personnel in tactical scenarios. Its durability in challenging field conditions, due to its robust design, further underscores its appropriateness for military use.
The Phantom is a laser generator, not a complete weapon. It requires a power source and optics for targeting to become an effective weapon system.
