Australia has tested a mobile laser capable of hitting UAVs at speeds of up to 100 km/h

Australia has tested its first laser weapon capable of shooting down drones with high precision. The relevant tests took place in May at one of the military ranges. According to the Australian Defense Forces (ADF), the portable high-energy laser Fractl can track objects the size of a 10-cent coin moving at a distance of 1 km at a speed of 100 km/h. The system has enough power to burn through steel. Fractl was considered the most powerful portable high-energy laser in the world. This laser weapon is a key part of the ADF's efforts to develop its arsenal against unmanned aerial vehicles. The compact system, about the size of a suitcase, was developed by AIM Defence company from Melbourne. The company claims that its Fractl laser uses the most advanced tracking and optics system in the world, providing precision in targeting UAVs. The laser beam can target critical drone components such as rotors, wiring, and cameras. "With the push of a button to track the UAV, the computer does the work, then you hit another button to 'pull the trigger,' like in a video game," said Corporal Patrick Flanagan of the ADF. With the use of a pointing finger, the operator can quickly switch the sight between drone components. It takes a few seconds to disable the camera and 2-3 seconds to disable the rotor. The system is designed for integration into existing structures. Fractl is easily deployable, offers power options from a battery and AC source. The entire ready-to-operate unit weighs 50 kg, making it portable and easy to use in various work scenarios. AIM claims that the size and weight of Fractl make up one-tenth of the dimensions and weight of other laser systems available on the market. It is also noted that this is one of the most cost-effective solutions for protection against drones. Source: interestingengineering