US MQ-9B strike drones to receive laser combat system
The American company General Atomics is upgrading its MQ-9B drones with a laser combat system that will allow it to quickly destroy enemy drones.
Here's What We Know
The MQ-9B drones will be equipped with a High Energy Laser Weapon System with a capacity of up to 300 kilowatts. To operate the system, special batteries will be placed on board the drone.
The laser weapon itself will be placed under the wing and equipped with an air intake for cooling. The combat module will be rotatable, allowing for targeting without turning the drone itself.
The main targets for such a drone will be other drones. The use of laser weapons to combat drones is considered more effective than expensive missiles. In the future, the laser system may also be tested to destroy cruise missiles.
A rendering of the MQ-9B with the new on-board laser system. Illustration: General Atomics
The MQ-9B is an upgraded version of the MQ-9A with a wingspan of 24 metres and an increased range and flight time of up to 40 hours.
We also recall that the Ukrainian unmanned systems forces recently demonstrated the operation and capabilities of the Tryzub laser system, which will also be used to combat drones.
Source: TheAviationist
