Piracy worldwide is on the rise according to reports
from the ICC’s International Maritime Bureau (IMB),
with 430 attacks worldwide reported last year, up from
406 in 2009. As pirates increase their range of operations
and their capabilities, commercial shipping agents are
increasingly looking for ways of preventing attacks whilst
avoiding armed guards on their ships
In order to help combat the growing piracy threat BAE
Systems conducted a study of pirate’s behaviour
and a company-wide capability survey. This led to the
development of the concept of using a non-lethal laser,
which would leave only temporary effects, to distract
and deter potential attackers from a distance.
Leveraging the capability of its Optics and Laser Technology
Department within its Advanced Technology Centre, BAE
System’s researchers conducted a number of experiments
to assess the feasibility of laser distraction as a non-lethal
weapon. The research team has now successfully demonstrated
a suitable laser at the Pershore Trials Range in Worcester
over a variety of distances in a variety of conditions.
The laser beam is capable of providing a visual warning
to pirates at distances greater than 2km, and of disorientating
attackers sufficiently at lesser distances so that weapons
cannot be targeted effectively. At all times the power
levels of the laser remain eye safe.
The laser was trialled during night and day in varying
weather conditions at the Worcester facility. Cameras
were placed at the target location to demonstrate the
level of beam intensity and divergence produced by the
test runs. Beam oscillation techniques were also demonstrated.
