Laser Destroys Roadside Bombs

“The directed energy from the laser may also be used to ignite combustible materials, as a standoff cutting torch, and for other combat purposes,” General Dynamics said in a statement about the project ahead of US moves to purchase and deploy the system in its army. Thor combines the Israeli-produced, high-energy laser with the Browning M2 12.7-mm machine gun, made by General Dynamics, to destroy explosive devices. “The M2 machine gun ultimately provides accurate, direct fire upon…targets in either an offensive or defensive role,” Rafael announced.

The weapon is used with a remote operator control station or mounted on a vehicle or bomb-squad robot. It includes sensors that work either in day or nighttime conditions to detect the hidden explosive charge. The directed energy from the laser is capable of rapidly clearing unexploded devices, such as exposed mines, by inducing a low-order burning or deflagration reaction in the explosive material from a safe distance.

As a direct result of lessons learned from last summer’s war, Rafael has also developed the Trophy System that can identify and track incoming threats and launch projectiles from tanks.

For more information, go to www.rafael.co.il