New Laser Weapon

The Navy deploys the first destructive laser weapon on a ship in the Persian Gulf. Bloomberg reports the device is mounted on the bow of the USS Ponce, an amphibious transport. The prototype is made of a combination of commercial welding lasers. Navy officials said it has a range of power settings. It can dazzle an enemy with light. Or, it can be cranked up to set a drone aircraft or small boat on fire. The laser was developed by the Navy Sea Systems Command. It cost about $1 per shot to operate. At maximum power it takes 30 kilowatts of electricity.