(By Kelly McDonald, Jr) The US Military has recently received a new laser system to shoot down drones. The laser, developed by Lockheed Martin, combines several laser beams into a single, focused laser beam. It will soon be turned over to the Army for further testing.
Enemy drones are problematic for the military because they are an inexpensive way for terrorists and other countries to launch attacks. Instead of using munitions such as missiles that can cost upwards of millions of dollars and incur tremendous collateral damage, the military laser is a cheaper alternative to accomplish the same goal. One laser beam shot costs roughly $1 and is fired at the speed of light. Moreover, it has the ability to hit many targets over a short period of time. This next wave of technology will save money and lives.
