Drone-borne laser dazzler

The drone-borne laser dazzler is a non-lethal directed-energy weapon system mounted on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones). 

It uses low-power to medium-power laser beams to temporarily impair or disrupt the vision of humans or optical sensors (e.g., cameras, targeting systems) without causing permanent damage. 

This technology combines the mobility and versatility of drones with the non-lethal effects of laser dazzlers, making it a valuable tool in various security, military, and law enforcement scenarios.

Key Components and Functionality

1. Drone Platform:

• Typically uses small to medium-sized UAVs (multicopters or fixed-wing) with sufficient payload capacity to carry the laser dazzler, power supply, and targeting systems.

• Advantages: Aerial mobility allows access to hard-to-reach areas, rapid deployment, and flexible positioning (e.g., hovering at low altitudes or moving horizontally).

Laser Dazzler Module:

• Emits coherent laser light, usually in visible wavelengths (e.g., green or red), which is highly visible to the human eye and optical sensors.

• Non-lethal mechanism: The laser’s intensity causes temporary "dazzling"—a bright glare that overwhelms the retina, leading to blurred vision, disorientation,

• or temporary blindness (lasting seconds to minutes). For sensors, it can cause blooming, overexposure, or temporary shutdown.

Targeting and Control Systems:

• Equipped with cameras, rangefinders, or GPS to track and lock onto targets (e.g., individuals, vehicles, or other drones).

• Operated remotely by a human operator or, in advanced models, semi-autonomously with pre-programmed target parameters.

Applications

• Military and Defense:

  • Disrupting enemy surveillance by blinding optical sensors on drones, vehicles, or infantry.

  • Deterring unauthorized personnel near sensitive areas (e.g., military bases, borders) without using lethal force.

• Law Enforcement and Crowd Control:

  • Managing riots or protests by temporarily disabling aggressive individuals or dispersing crowds without physical contact.

  • Stopping unauthorized drone intrusions (e.g., near airports, stadiums) by dazzling their cameras or navigation systems.

• Security and Critical Infrastructure Protection:

  • Guarding power plants, airports, or public events by deterring trespassers or suspicious drones.

Advantages

• Non-lethal: Reduces the risk of permanent injury or death compared to firearms or explosive weapons.

• Precision: Can target specific individuals or sensors without affecting nearby bystanders (with proper calibration).

• Mobility: Drones enable access to elevated or remote positions, expanding operational range.

• Rapid Response: Quicker to deploy than ground-based systems, especially in dynamic situations.