Laser weapons avoid these problems, or at least in theory. The Navy is aiming for a magazine that can power a small weapon of 20 kilowatts and operate on a 1-micron wavelength. However, it would be perfect for the real prize that the Navy seeks: a laser weapon compact enough to disable small drones. US NavyRechargeable magazines could enable laser weapons to fire more shots before needing to cool down. “Sometimes we have a tendency to over promise and under deliver,” the Navy admiral who oversees laser weapons research admitted at a recent conference.

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Persons: —, ” Iain Boyd, Boyd, “ Organizations: Service, Business, Navy Small Business Innovation Research, Navy, Stryker, Amphibious, US, Center for National Security, University of Colorado Locations: HEL, Portland, Persian Gulf