There are many options available to the Navy for a new laser weapon. A high-energy laser system that includes an integrated optical-dazzler, high repeatition range-finders, as well as a laser weapon that is safe for the eyes, are some of these options. These systems can be used to disarm specific targets, such as surface threats. The Navy will ultimately make the final decision.
High-energy laser system integrated with optical-dazzler
The United States Navy is on the verge of fielding a high-energy laser weapon on a warship. The HELIOS defensive laser system, also known as the HELIOS, is capable of shooting down unmanned drones and burning boats. It is expected that it will be deployed with a guided-missile destroyer in the Pacific Fleet by 2020.
Later this year, the high-power laser weapon and a low-end non lethal laser dazzler will be available. Both systems will provide the Navy with valuable operational experience with directed energy weapons. In the meantime, engineers will continue developing the Navy Laser Family of Systems.
HELIOS system
HELIOS is an advanced laser weapon that targets aerial targets. It can be used to dazzle enemy drones or for intelligence and long-range surveillance. HELIOS is being studied by the Navy to be used in future fleet vessels.
The HELIOS is part of a family of laser weapon systems for the Navy. This family is designed to deliver lasers that can be used in combat. The deployment of the first HELIOS systems is planned for 2023. The laser weapon can integrate into the Aegis combat and will likely be installed on ships. The laser weapon can stun UASs and offers other game-changing capabilities.
High repetition range-finders for eyes that are eye-safe
Eye-safe high repetition rangefinder (ELRF), is a laser range-finding device that uses high intensity light radiation. It is capable of temporarily blinding enemies and can be used over a distance of 500-700 metres. It uses an electromagnetic resonator to shift light's wavelength from one micron into the other. It is small in size and only 1.65 kgs. An RS232 interface is also available to provide range information to other systems. The laser can be linked to a GPS receiver in the UK.
One example is the Vidar laser rangefinder. It is intended for naval and ground applications. It is true class-one laser safe for the eyes and is very easy to use in training. It has an integrated boresight sensor and is compact.
Long-range capabilities
The Navy is currently developing a long-range laser weapon. The weapon is five times stronger than the predecessor, which has been in use for more than five decades. It is capable of tracking 60-millimeter mortar shells. It can also target drones in three sizes.
The laser weapon has been designed to be multi-mission, allowing it to attack targets at very long ranges. The Navy plans to deploy it in operational maritime environments by the end of 2023. The lessons learned from the testing phase will guide future development efforts.
Cost per shot
A laser weapon is being tested by the Navy. It can take out flying unmanned boats and destroy their engines. It's also more affordable to make and operate than other weapons. It costs less then $1 per shot. The laser weapon has been used against Iranian-style attack ships. While the laser did not cause damage, it did cause collateral damage.
The Navy Laser Weapon System's cost per shot is much lower than comparable kinetic systems. Depending upon the power of the laser weapon used, the cost per shot could range from $1.15 (a 60-kW) to $9.20 (a 480 kW laser). The Navy estimates that 60-kW class Lasers cost $100 million each. A 250-kW laser would be around $200 Million each.