The Navy has many options when it comes to a new weapon with lasers. These options include a high-energy laser system with integrated optical-dazzler, high-repetition range-finders, and an eye-safe laser weapon. These systems are also capable of disabling specific targets, including those that pose a threat to the surface. The Navy will ultimately take the final call.
High-energy laser systems with integrated optical dazzler
The United States Navy may soon be able to deploy a high-energy laser weapon aboard a warship. This defensive laser system, called the HELIOS is intended to destroy unmanned drones as well as boats. It will be in service in 2021 with a guided missile destroyer within the Pacific Fleet.
The high power laser weapon will arrive later in the year. It will be followed by a low end non-lethal, laser dazzler. The Navy will gain valuable operational experience with both directed energy weapons systems. The Navy Laser Family of Systems will be developed by engineers.
HELIOS system
The HELIOS system is a high-energy laser weapon that can be used to target aerial targets. It can be used to dazzle enemy drones or for intelligence and long-range surveillance. The Navy is considering the HELIOS for its future fleet ships.
The Navy's laser weapon systems family includes HELIOS. This family is designed to deliver lasers that can be used in combat. In 2023, the deployment of the first HELIOS is planned. It is planned that the laser weapon will be mounted on ships, and integrated into Aegis' combat system. The laser weapon can stun UASs and offers other game-changing capabilities.
Eye-safe, high repetition range-finder
The eye safe high repetition range-finder is a laser range finder that uses high intensity light radiation. It can temporarily blind enemy enemies and works over a range from 500 to 700 meters. It uses a resonator that shifts the wavelength of light from one micron to another. It is small in stature and weighs just 1.65 kilograms. Additionally, the device has an RS232 interface which allows it to send range information out to other systems. The laser can also be linked to a GPS receiver for the UK.
A good example of such a system is the Vidar laser-range-finder. It is suitable for ground and naval applications. It is class-one safe and easy to use during training. It also features an integrated boresight camera.
Long-range capabilities
The Navy is working on a laser weapon that can be used long-range. The weapon will be five-fold more powerful than its predecessor which has been around for 50 years. It is designed to be able to track 60-millimeter mortar rounds. It can also target drones up to three sizes.
This laser weapon is multi-mission and can attack targets at long ranges. It is expected to be operational in maritime environments by 2023. The lessons learned from the testing phase will guide future development efforts.
Cost per shot
The Navy is testing a laser weapon. Its high precision makes it possible to destroy engines of manned watercraft and take out flying unmanned vessels. It is also easier to build than conventional weapons and less expensive to operate. It costs less then $1 per shot. The laser weapon has already been tested against Iranian-style attack boats. The laser didn't blow up the boats, but it did cause some collateral damage.
The Navy Laser Weapon System costs less per shot than comparable systems. Depending on the laser weapon's power, the cost per shot may range from $1.15 to $9.20 for a 60-kW system up to $9.20 with a 480-kW one. The Navy estimates that 60-kW class lasers will cost $100 million each. A 250-kW laser will cost approximately $200 million.