Army Officials Discuss Directed-Energy Weapon Use and Safety Protocols
What happened
At the Association of the United States Army convention, officials discussed the operational use of directed-energy weapons. The Army has employed these systems at the US southern border against cartel-linked drones. Kirk Williams, chief engineer of the Army's directed energy project office, stated that unless a soldier is within ten feet of the target, specular reflection from lasers is eye-safe.
From businessinsider.com
Why it matters
The increased operational use of directed-energy weapons signals a shift in defense technology procurement. The service envisions these systems operating on different vehicles and being easy for soldiers to learn and use safely.
From businessinsider.com
Who's involved
- Association of the United States ArmyHosted the convention where officials spoke on directed-energy weapon advancements.
- YelvertonMilitary official who spoke on directed-energy weapon developments at the convention.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- Lockheed MartinSpeculative
Lockheed Martin might see increased investment in defense technology procurement as the Army shifts toward directed-energy weapon integration.
- BAE SystemsSpeculative
BAE Systems could face new procurement needs as the Army pushes to integrate high-energy lasers onto vehicles.
- OshkoshSpeculative
Oshkosh may see increased demand for vehicle platforms if the Army integrates high-energy lasers onto 'any vehicle'.
Possible ripples
Who this could reach next, traced step by step from the reporting. Possibilities worth considering, not forecasts.- Directed-energy weapon expansion may increase senate focus on defense fundingThe expansion of directed-energy weapons could drive legislative focus on defense funding.Possible
- Army's push for vehicle-integrated lasers may boost GM Defense ordersGM Defense may benefit from Army's push to integrate lasers onto various vehiclesPossible
Keep exploring
The entities involved
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Association of the United States Army
organization
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Yelverton
village in Devon, United Kingdom
Nothing else this week.