01 June 2010

Laser Upgrade to Phalanx CIWS Tested


The Laser Weapons System, which is laser upgrade to the Phalanx CIWS, recently successfully tracked, engaged and destroyed an aerial drone in an over-the-water test. Interestingly, the laser upgrade once deployed is expected to supplement rather than replace the 20mm autocannon.


For years, the U.S. Navy has been pursuing a workable ray gun that could provide a leap ahead in ship self-defenses.

Now, with a series of tests of a system called the Laser Weapon System, or LaWS), it may be one step closer to that goal.

Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), the service's technology development arm, announced today that LaWS had "successfully tracked, engaged, and destroyed" a drone in flight, during an over-the-water engagement at San Nicholas Island, California.


By: Shelldrake

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