General Atomics reveals drone with laser weapon to shoot down aerial threats with precision and lower cost

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General Atomics unveils drone with laser weapon to target aerial threats with precision and lower cost
General Atomics unveils drone with laser weapon to target aerial threats with precision and lower cost (X @GenAtomics_ASI)

General Atomics has revealed a new laser weapon system developed to be installed on the MQ-9B drone, designed to neutralize aerial threats, especially other drones.

The equipment uses a high-energy laser with a power of up to 300 kilowatts, powered by dedicated batteries installed on the aircraft itself. The module, positioned under the drone’s wing, features a cooling system and can rotate to track targets without the need to move the drone.

According to the company, the system was designed to operate in different weather conditions and presents a more cost-effective alternative to using expensive missiles to intercept low-cost drones.

In addition to unmanned systems, the laser could be tested in the future against cruise missiles, expanding its usefulness in modern combat scenarios.

The MQ-9B, an advanced version of the MQ-9A, has a flight endurance of up to 40 hours and increased range, making it an ideal platform for prolonged missions.

General Atomics emphasized that recent conflicts, such as those in Ukraine and the Red Sea, highlight the urgency for more efficient and accessible defense technologies. In Ukraine, for example, military forces have already demonstrated the use of the national Tryzub laser system against similar threats.

Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @GenAtomics_ASI | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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