It’s against the United Nations’ rules to permanently blind your enemies, but much to the delight of the armed services, the alternative, temporary blindness, may be okay. US government agencies and others are eager to increase the use of the laser dazzler, a non-lethal, directed-energy weapon that uses visible light to cause temporary blindness or disorientation.
Canadian forces are planning a $10 million purchase of 500 laser dazzlers for use in Afghanistan. They hope to have them by autumn of 2009. There is controversy over the purchase and its use in military operations because of agreed-upon prohibitions in international law against the use of blinding lasers.
The flashlight-sized weapon overpowers a person’s sight with strong pulses of green light. The light pulses also cause disorientation. The dazzlers have already been used by military and law enforcement worldwide, including those in Iraq and Afghanistan.
StunRay™, CHP Laser Dazzler™, and SaberShot, are all dazzler brand names.
The above video shows the laser in action.
Real-Life Military Ray Guns
The Laser Dazzler is Part Phaser, Part Light Saber
Trend Themes
1. Laser Dazzler Weapon - The increasing use of laser dazzler, a non-lethal, directed-energy weapon that uses visible light to cause temporary blindness or disorientation is disrupting the arms manufacturing industry.
2. Directed-energy Weapons - The development of directed-energy weapons is disrupting the non-lethal weapons industry with the potential to revolutionize the way law enforcement and military operate.
3. Controversial Weaponry - The use of laser dazzlers in military operations and the controversy surrounding their violation of international law is disrupting the defense industry
Industry Implications
1. Arms Manufacturing - The increased use of laser dazzlers and other directed-energy weaponry is disrupting the traditional arms manufacturing industry, with more investment likely in this new technology.
2. Non-lethal Weapons - The development and increased use of directed-energy weapons like laser dazzlers is disrupting the non-lethal weapons industry, with the potential for more innovative and effective weapons.
3. Defense - The controversial use of laser dazzlers in military operations is disrupting the defense industry with increased focus on regulations and global cooperation.