Lasers are coming, but are personnel protected?
The US Army’s recent tests of high-energy laser systems, including on the Stryker combat vehicle, illustrates a potential problem with their use; the safety of personnel exposed to them.
Though counter-UAS tests have been reportedly effective, demonstrations have been limited by the need to ensure all engagements are below-the-horizon so as not to risk blinding nearby aircraft.
Coming with such limitations is uneven recognition that effective training with – and fighting against – tactical laser systems will require protecting the eyes of those in contact with them.
'As more laser threats emerge, we’re being asked to design eyewear
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
You may also like
More from Land Warfare
-
![March land forces roundup: A new war confronts the old drone problem]()
March land forces roundup: A new war confronts the old drone problem
The attack by the US and Israel on Iran which began at the end of February presented a Ukraine-like scenario of drone-led warfare – in fact the same drone type in the Shahed – and the problem of how to counter them.
-
![The overlooked ally: Canadian support for Ukraine surpasses some European partners]()
The overlooked ally: Canadian support for Ukraine surpasses some European partners
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Canada has committed more military assistance than France in terms of GDP.
-
![France mulls new turret options to increase its VBCI IFV’s firepower]()
France mulls new turret options to increase its VBCI IFV’s firepower
The proposed enhancements could better position the French Army’s armoured infantry fighting vehicle for future export campaigns.
-
![US Army moves towards calls for bids for medium UGV as competitors warm up]()
US Army moves towards calls for bids for medium UGV as competitors warm up
The US Army’s Medium Modular Equipment Transport Trailer (M-METT) programme is planned to provide a platform between Increment II of Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport and the Palletized Load System.
-
![Why bridging the gap between military and COTS systems is key to seamless defence comms (Studio)]()
Why bridging the gap between military and COTS systems is key to seamless defence comms (Studio)
Technology that enables armed forces to leverage existing network infrastructure can be a game-changer in many combat scenarios.
