Pulser: Laser weapons against enemy electronic systems
In 2015, laser/directed energy weapons are starting to become a reality, but for the most part these are bulky systems intended for installation on land, air or sea vehicles.
Perhaps this is changing, however, judging by the work of an engineer at the US Army's ARDEC (Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center).
As reported in a relevant Defense One article, James Burke has developed the "Burke Pulser," as he calls it, which consists of two antennas, a piezoelectric generator, and some other components, while also featuring a special shield to protect the user from levels of electricity that could be dangerous.
The most notable thing is that in essence the entire system utilizes the infantryman's "simple" assault rifle - in this case, the M4.
The Pulser takes the energy released when the gun is fired and converts it into electrical pulses, through the piezoelectric effect, which produces an electrical charge when pressure is applied to crystalline materials. Visually, the whole "package" looks like a normal rifle with antennas on the barrel.
The Pulser is not the first electric weapon to be invented, as the US military has been experimenting with ray guns for decades - however, in this case the advantage of small size is significant.
Regarding the use of the Pulser, it is not intended against personnel, but against electronic systems, giving the foot soldier a means of dealing with technologically advanced threats encountered on the modern battlefield, from remote-controlled improvised explosive devices to drones, etc.
The US military is currently testing Pulser against a range of different devices, simulating the circuits that might be encountered under normal circumstances. Its range is still under investigation, and Burke notes that the capabilities are "very quickly being classified."
Source: defencenet.gr
