Evan Haning, wtop.com
WASHINGTON — The RQ-170 Sentinel drone that Iran displayed last week uses technology that once existed only in science fiction. But now, almost anything weapons researchers can dream up seems possible.
Wired.com’s list of 10 sci-fi weapons that actually exist includes real world devices that perform like CGI on IMAX screens.
The XM-25 grenade launcher finds its targets with a laser rangefinder and locks on it using an on-board computer. Projectiles detonate as they pass their targets, striking enemies as they take cover. The Army hopes to provide at least one of these to every Special Forces unit and infantry squad by next year.
The Bedazzler is a vomit or seasick beam. It is a handheld, non-lethal device that uses flashing lights to upset equilibrium in its target. Its creators claim you can build one at home for less than $250.
The Active Denial System cooks water in its target’s skin with millimeter-wave radiation. People feel as if they are burning, but the “pain ray” causes no permanent damage, at least in theory.
The Long Range Acoustic Device has been used on foreign pirates and domestic protestors. It sends a narrow, ear-splitting sound beam like an audio spotlight as far as 1,000 feet.
Different drones do different things. The captured RQ-170 Sentinel evades radar, thanks to its stealth shape. Predators can observe for long periods of time without being seen. Reaper drones can hold four Hellfire missiles and two 500-pound bombs.
And just as the L-RAD has been used against domestic protestors, Predator drones have been deployed in North Dakota and along the U.S. border with Mexico.
Flash bang grenades are only supposed to stun, but — like tasers — have a less than perfect safety record. After accidents that dismembered at least one soldier and deafened several more, the improved Flash Bang Grenade eliminates the shockwave and creates its blinding flash by throwing aluminum particles in the air.
Instead of firing a warning shot, the LA-9/P fires a warning laser pointer. The Marines refer to these green laser pointers as “ocular interruption devices,” and they can send their beam 2.5 miles.
The Laser Avenger mounts on a hummer and its beam is at least 12,000 times stronger than the green warning laser. Boeing’s 1-kilowatt laser can bring down drones and destroy improvised explosive devices.
Northrop Grumman also develops laser systems, including solid-state lasers for maritime use.
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